A dispersal order has been put in place to tackle nuisance motorists in Greenhithe.

Police have warned boy racers targeting the Crossways Boulevard area they face Covid-19 fines and will have vehicles confiscated for non-compliance where necessary.

It comes after officers were called to reports of cars driving in a reckless manner in Charles Street and the surrounding areas near the Dartford Crossing over two consecutive weekends.

On February 20, officers were called to a car meet near the Burger King.

A patrol attended and fined five men or breaching Coronavirus legislation. They were then dispersed.

Six days later, a vehicle was seized after it was observed being driven in a poor manner.

Further checks were carried out the next evening and a group of motorists left the area upon the arrival of police.

Neighbours have become increasingly alarmed at the presence of "boy racers" close to where a man was killed on a pedestrian crossing four years ago.

Many took to social media to vent their frustration, prompting local councillors to call for tougher measures and Dartford's MP to condemn their "selfish behaviour".

Following these incidents, the dispersal order will be enforced in the Crossways Boulevard area between 8pm on Friday until 8pm on Sunday.

It gives officers the authority to instruct anyone to leave the area if they have reason to believe they are likely to engage in nuisance behaviour.

Those who fail to comply with the instruction risk arrest.

Inspector Sarah Rivett, from the Dartford Community Safety Unit, said: "A small number of motorists have thought it appropriate to travel to the Crossways Boulevard area and cause a nuisance to residents and nearby businesses.

"We have zero tolerance for any type of antisocial behaviour and will always use the most robust, but proportionate, powers available."

Kent Police say residents can expect to see increased patrols in the area this weekend and nuisance behaviour dealt with accordingly.

Insp Rivett added: "Where necessary, we will seize vehicles and issue fines under Coronavirus legislation.

"In addition to this action, we are working with nearby businesses to discuss changes that can be made to security arrangements which will prevent such gatherings in the future."

"Residents can be assured that we will not turn a blind eye to any antisocial activity that takes place after this weekend."

Kent County councillor for Swanscombe and Greenhithe, Peter Harman has previously spoken out on the issue after receiving several reports of anti-social driving in the Crossways Boulevard area.

Last summer it was reported how a noisy meet of up to 200 vehicles was said to regularly take place at the business park in Quadrant Court, off Crossways.

Local councillors led a campaign at the time for a dispersal order and landowners agreed to strengthen security measures.

Anyone with a concern is encouraged to report it via the Kent Police website, or by calling 101.

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