AN area of Runcorn has been given Cheshire’s first public space protection order to make it safer for residents.

Ridgeway in Murdishaw is now protected by various new regulations.

It follows problems caused by teenagers around the shops and Busway in October last year.

Cheshire Police issued more than 80 dispersal notices to young people.

There is a now ban on legal highs, off road motorbikes, throwing missiles, drinking alcohol, loitering, dropping litter and not clearing up dog mess.

It is part of plans to give the estate a new image.

A £2 million 18-home development is planned on the site of the former Jolly Brewer pub.

Halton Cllr Dave Cargill, board member for community safety, said: “The public space protection order is about laying the foundations during the school holidays and in preparation for the Halloween period.

"We will evaluate the success of the order.

“Our main objective is to see more residents using the shops, the chip shop and the buses in the evening.

"This will tell me residents feel safe and agencies involved in the regeneration and protection of the area have succeeded”.

CCTV images of troublesome teenagers were shown in schools and names shared with landlords and the youth offending team.

Follow up work by agencies has seen a significant reduction in incidents since last October.

Halton Community Safety ASB Officer Mark Antrobus, said: "The order will last for two years.

“It will send a zero tolerance message whilst providing additional enforcement tools and powers to the Council and Police to protect the future regeneration of the shops, 18 new homes, the bus service and the green open space."

Lynn Bundu, assistant director of neighbourhood services for LHT said: "This demonstrates a clear commitment to spell out what is acceptable behaviour and to reassure residents that if need be action can and will be taken.

“Agencies are working together to provide a number of activities for young people over the summer months with the hope that we can keep young people safe and engaged."

Possible sanctions include a £80 fixed penalty notice and prosecution and £1,000 fine if it is not paid.