COMMENTARY ON SECTIONS General Section 161 – Closure order for identified premises
251.This section provides a senior police officer with the power to close specific premises for up to 24 hours. A closure order may be made upon two grounds, the first of which is where there is actual or likely disorder to the extent that the closure of the related premises is necessary in the interests of public safety. The second ground is where closure is necessary to prevent a public nuisance, owing to the noise emanating from the premises.
252.In deciding whether to make a closure order, the police officer must have regard to the conduct of certain defined individuals at the premises. The purpose of this provision is to allow discretion in cases where, for example, it is clear that those managing the premises are treating the disorder or disturbance with sufficient gravity and are taking steps to reduce it or bring it under control.