Dispersal order to target gangs

New police powers have come into force to tackle anti-social behaviour in a Nottingham neighbourhood.

A dispersal order is in place to stop groups of youths congregating and causing problems in Sneinton.

The order allows officers to tell groups of people to leave an area, exclude them for up to 24 hours and arrest those who do not comply.

Police said the order, which also allowed them to confiscate alcohol, was in response to a rise in complaints.

Anyone under the age of 16 found in the dispersal zone can also be escorted home.

Residents and businesses in Sneinton have told officers that groups of youths have been drinking, swearing and intimidating members of the public.

Police said the measures have already proven successful in other areas of Nottinghamshire.