The order aims to stop street drinking and vandalism

Derbyshire Police and the city council are introducing a dispersal order in an area between Abbey Street and Stockbrook Street in the city centre.

It will give officers the power to split up and disperse groups of people. It follows problems with street drinking and vandalism.

Insp Gary Parkin said: "We feel this is a positive and pro-active response to ongoing concerns."

He added: "We have had ongoing problems around Abbey Street with a number of people frequenting the area around the telephone boxes drinking alcohol and causing a general nuisance and problems not only for passers-by but for local traders and organisations.

"As far as the Stockbrook Street issue goes we have had numerous complaints of anti-social behaviour and low level crime in the area around the play and park area over a number of months.

"Dispersal orders have already been issued to good affect in Derby city centre and Mickleover and I hope similar success can be achieved with this latest order."