Cars on the Beach Boulevard have caused complaints for years

The pioneering project along Aberdeen's Beach Boulevard allows officers to ban groups from the area for 24 hours.

The city granted the power under the Anti-Social Behaviour Act in March and the scheme will carry on through the summer when complaints usually rise.

Locals have complained for years about "Bouley Bashers" who keep them awake with loud music and car engine noises.

Within the boulevard zone, Grampian Police can order those whose behaviour or presence causes, or is likely to cause, alarm or distress to other members of the public to leave the area.

This can include those who shout, swear, urinate, play music too loudly, litter or drive carelessly.

The dispersal authorisation appears to have had a positive effect in reducing instances of anti-social behaviour Albert Donald Grampian Police

Anyone who is banned and returns to the area within the next day is arrested and can face a fine of up to �2,500 or three months in prison.

The Beach Boulevard area was identified as suitable for the new powers after 266 calls were received in 2004 about noisy vehicles, road traffic offences and youth disorder.

Police said 62 people had been dispersed from the Beach Boulevard and there had been a 53% drop in reported incidents of anti-social behaviour since the dispersal measures were implemented.

Temporary Chief Superintendent Albert Donald, of Grampian Police, said: "The issues surrounding the Beach Boulevard and surrounding area have been with us for many years and it would be unrealistic to expect an overnight change in behaviour.

"The dispersal authorisation appears to have had a positive effect in reducing instances of anti-social behaviour and I believe that it is entirely appropriate to use the power for a second period."