School children are “welcome to come to Bexleyheath” despite rumours that groups of more than two youngsters would be asked to leave, police have confirmed.

Bexley Police posted a statement on their Facebook page this afternoon (June 22) stating that “there are no restrictions for any members of the public” in Bexleyheath and specifically in The Broadway.

The comment appears to have been posted following an increase in anti-social behaviour in the area and claims from parents on social media that officers had told pupils they were “not allowed to go to Bexleyheath.”

The police statement says: “To clarify outstanding concerns regarding school students being banned from Bexleyheath, this is NOT the case. All persons are welcome to come to Bexleyheath and there are no restrictions for any members of the public.

News Shopper:

The Broadway, Bexleyheath

“Recently on The Broadway, Bexleyheath, there has been an increase of anti-social behaviour, which has caused concern for members of the public and school aged children.

"This is constantly being monitored by ourselves and we are working with a number of partners to try and resolve this issue.”

The post goes on to explain that should the behaviour continue, police could impose a direction to leave notice on the area, which would mean officers would have the power to ask individuals to leave a specified area. Notices can be imposed for up to 48 hours.

The statement continues: “Contravention of the direction to leave is an offence under Section 39 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime & Police Act 2014, punishable by up to three months imprisonment and / or a fine not exceeding £2,500.

“To clarify there is no direction to leave notice in place and we will keep you posted if this changes.

"If you have any concerns then please feel free to speak to us. We’re working hard to prevent crime and protect the people of Bexley.”

Have you been affected by these rumours? Email fiona.simpson@london.newsquest.co.uk