Police in Aberdeen have been given new powers to ban troublemakers for the city centre for 24 hours at a time.
A dispersal zone has been set up for Union Street, the shopping centres and their connecting streets to clamp down on antisocial behaviour.
From today, officers who spot groups of two or more people in the area who are “likely to cause distress to members of the public” can tell them not to return within 24 hours.
Anyone caught back there before the time is up could be arrested.
The zone has been set up following a rise in the number of police reports about antisocial behaviour, vandalism and assault by youngsters in the city centre.
It will be in place every day from 12pm to 12am, beginning at midday today until the end of August.
Community Policing Team Inspector Vicky Stables said: “”In the last few weeks we have seen a number of young people from across the north-east in addition to those from Aberdeen congregating in the city centre and some have been choosing to engage in antisocial behaviour.
“We have also seen incidents of a serious nature including an alleged attempted murder which three people have been charged with.
“A number of interventions are ongoing with partners and parents however we are looking to develop a proportionate sustainable solution to prevent a problem from developing.”
She added: “The powers contained in the dispersal provisions are not intended to be used as a first resort or in isolation.
“Rather they are intended for use as part of a package of measures agreed with partner agencies.
“The power of dispersal will only be used if it is believed that the presence or behaviour of groups has distressed members of the public.”
The city council’s public protection convener, Jennifer Stewart, said: “A small number of people have been responsible for antisocial and offending behaviour in recent months and we will always support robust action to help ensure the safety of all who live and visit our city centre.
“This order will help ensure all residents and visitors can enjoy their visit.”
