ORDERS to disperse boy racers in Worcester and Droitwich are working, according to councillors. 

Police have issued 48-hour dispersal orders in the two areas over the last few weekends to try and discourage boy racers from gathering in the area.

The orders cover the A4440 between the island at the junction of Dugdale Drive and the island at the A44 including the surrounding areas, industrial estate and nearby food outlet car parks.

In Droitwich, they cover the A442 between “Big Bear Island” and the Westlands Island and make it an offence for anyone to return to the specific areas for 48 hours.

Warndon councillor Andy Roberts said the orders were having the desired effect and that the last few weeks hadn’t been as bad in the area.

He said: “I have noticed a difference in the last two weeks or so. I’m not saying it has disappeared altogether, but it is noticeable.

“I know the police are making a real sustained effort on this issue which is long-running.

“There are different aspects to this whole issue: there is safety of course, you don’t want anyone to have an accident, but the other is people’s lives.

“You don’t want 10,000 people having their lives disrupted by two or three people pursuing something just for their own pleasure.”

Cllr Roberts also praised efforts by the police, council and community groups to discuss ways to resolve the issue, adding: “The efforts seem to be paying off - the police have a new system of working with the community on these matters.

“I know Trotshill Way has been reduced to 40mph and it was my hope we could do that on other roads nearby.”

Dispersal orders make it an offence for anyone to return to a specific area for up to 48 hours.

Droitwich councillor Richard Morris said he too had noticed a difference, and was glad they were having the desired effects.

He said: “I certainly can’t hear as much at night which is a relief. I know a lot of residents nearby are fed up of hearing it.

“I am really pleased the police have issued these orders as I know how annoying it can be.”

On the subject of a possible community resolution of the type seen in Warndon, Cllr Morris said he “always encourages dialogue” and that it was not a bad idea.

He added: “It is obviously a big pastime for the people who do it so it is important to see if there is a way they can use their enjoyment in a positive way rather than a negative way.”