Gangs of two or more will be broken up and dispersed

Police using the Anti-Social Behaviour Act will break up groups of they believe to be harassing people living on the Allerton estate.

Officers can also order anyone who does not live in the area to leave.

The clampdown, which follows complaints about criminal damage and general anti-social behaviour in the area, will be reviewed in December.

Gangs of young people can be extremely intimidating to some of our most vulnerable residents Supt Nigel Hibbert

It is the first time West Yorkshire Police has imposed the powers, called section 30 and 32 orders, in the district.

Officers now have the right to disperse groups if they are intimidating, alarming, harassing or causing distress to any members of the public.

It also gives them the power to remove, and take home, anyone under the age of 16 found in designated areas.

Living standards

Supt Nigel Hibbert said the aim of the operation was to reduce anti-social behaviour and the fear of crime on the estate.

"Gangs of young people can be extremely intimidating to some of our most vulnerable residents," he said.

"Part of this process will be to raise the awareness of the young people as to how their behaviour impacts on others.

"The long-term benefits are that Allerton will become a better place to live."

Parental partnership

West Yorkshire Police are working with Bradford Council, Bradford Community Housing Trust and Yorkshire Electricity, which has had problems with vandalism at one of one of its sub-stations.

Mr Hibbert assured residents that officers would use the new powers with "restraint and sensitivity".

Bradford City Council said it a small minority of persistent offenders had made life difficult for people.

"The council and the police will also be working in partnership with parents, the community and other local agents to ensure that the young people concerned amend their behaviour before getting into more serious trouble," said council leader Margaret Eaton.