Union Street is to be designated an anti-social behaviour zone

The two-month pilot scheme will see the whole of Union Street in the city designated an anti-social behaviour zone.

Gangs of people who are drunk, and showing signs of becoming violent, can be dispersed and ordered to leave the area before they start trouble.

Buses carrying police will be used to get drinkers home after a similar scheme proved a success in Southampton.

'Right kind of people'

Anti-social behaviour orders may be used to stop gangs coming into the city, more police will be on patrol and clubs and pubs will be inspected to check on door staff and under-age drinking.

Ch Supt Morris Watts from Devon and Cornwall Police said: "It will enable us to move away from areas those people who will probably prevent law-abiding folk from going about their normal business

"It should generate an increase in the right kind of people to the area."

The strategy will be introduced at the end of July and run until September and if it is a success, it could be extended.