Street drinking is now banned across the whole of the borough

Hastings Borough Council had already banned street drinking in parts of the East Sussex town, but found problems moved to areas outside the byelaw.

In July, drinkers were found to be gathering in areas covered by the ban such as St Leonards seafront and when challenged they moved to the foreshore.

Councillors voted to expand the ban in July. It comes into force on Thursday.

Problem 'displaced'

Members heard in July that street drinking contributed to the fear of crime and turned parts of the town into "no go" areas.

A report for the council said the effect could lead to further deterioration of an area, an increase in alcohol and drug abuse and more serious crimes.

The authority said that tackling "incivilities and anti-social behaviour" was a priority for the council and the Safer Hastings Partnership.

After the partial ban, areas that saw a rise in street drinking included Silverhill, Ore Village, Halton graveyard and the Battle Road area.

And groups of street drinkers were found to be made up of people - occasionally including children - who were addicted to other substances and who often had mental health issues.

Street drinking has already been banned in Brighton and Hove, and also parts of Eastbourne.