A rise in anti-social behaviour has led to extra police powers being introduced to tackle the problem in King Square.
Reports have included young people climbing on rooftops, setting a bin on fire, tampering with fire doors, and verbally abusing council staff.
In response, South Wales Police enforced a dispersal order under Section 34 of the Anti-Social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014.
The order, which was in effect from 6pm on Friday, October 9, until 6pm on Sunday, October 11, gave officers the authority to direct individuals or groups to leave the area for 48 hours if their behaviour had, or was likely to contribute to disorder or cause harassment, alarm, or distress to members of the public.
The recent issues have also prompted operational changes at the town hall, with meetings moved online and only pre-booked appointments being accepted.
A spokesperson for Barry Town Council said: “King Square is at the heart of our town and should be a welcoming space for everyone.
“While a small minority have engaged in unacceptable behaviour, we are working closely with our partners to ensure appropriate action is taken.
“The safety and wellbeing of our staff is non-negotiable.
“No employee should have to endure threats, intimidation or abuse whilst carrying out their job.
“We will continue to take all necessary steps to protect our workforce, support our community and help ensure King Square remains a safe place for residents, businesses and visitors alike.”
Some businesses located in and around King Square reported mixed experiences, with some closing early as a result of the disruption.
One business owner, who asked to remain anonymous, said: “I don’t know what the answer is.
“We had this a couple of years ago and it was quite damaging.
“It’s bad enough in town anyway without this.”
Another business, a charity shop, said it dealt with an incident as recently as Sunday (October 11).
A representative told the Barry and District News that a staff member was subjected to abuse from teens when taking the bins out, after simply asking them to move along.
This was the only incident they had dealt with directly – everything else has been through neighbours and other businesses.
Inspector Huw Tyler, of South Wales Police, said: “Everyone has the right to feel safe, wherever they are, and nobody should be subjected to threats, verbal abuse, and anti-social behaviour.
“We urge parents and guardians to speak to their young people about not getting involved in anti-social behaviour.
“Please also check who they are associating with, what they are doing and where they are.”
Those under the age of 16 who are subject to the order will be taken home or to a place of safety.
Inspector Tyler said: “We are committed to keeping Barry safe and putting a stop to this recent rise in anti-social behaviour.
“Anti-social behaviour referrals have already been submitted in relation to a number of young people, and their parents have been spoken to.
“Directed patrols by the Neighbourhood Policing Team are also continuing in King Square and we ask the public to please keep reporting incidents and providing information.”
Anyone with information or concerns is encouraged to contact South Wales Police, quoting reference number 2600330962.
