The boulevard runs alongside Aberdeen's beach

Grampian Police have designated the Beach Boulevard in Aberdeen as a "dispersal area" where police officers can ban groups for up to 24 hours.

Police said they were tackling a long-standing problem with young drivers who congregated in the area.

The new powers form part of the Anti- Social Behaviour (Scotland) Act 2004.

Alarm or distress

These powers come into effect at 2000 GMT on Tuesday and remain in place for three months, after which time they may be extended.

Police officers will have the power to ban groups of people whose behaviour or presence is causing, or is likely to cause alarm or distress to other members of the public.

Anyone banned who returns to the area within the next day will be arrested and may face a fine of up to �2,500 or three months imprisonment.

Police said that the type of behaviour which may result in a group being banned from the area included shouting, swearing, urinating, careless and inconsiderate driving, playing loud music or littering.

We have vigorously tackled this long-standing problem of anti-social behaviour, working with everyone involved Albert Donald Temporary Chief Superintendent

The Beach Boulevard area was identified as suitable for the new powers after 266 calls were received last year about noisy vehicles, road traffic offences and youth disorder.

The dispersal power was authorised by temporary Chief Superintendent Albert Donald.

He said: "We have vigorously tackled this long-standing problem of anti-social behaviour, working with everyone involved - residents and the young drivers who congregate in the area.

"Our enforcement operations during the last year has seen over 350 drivers charged.

"Over the past 11 months, our neighbourhood officers have reviewed all the work undertaken in the area over the years and we have concluded that a longer term solution is required."