The police could be given more power to stop anti-social drinking in the centre of Norwich.

Norwich City Council is looking at strengthening its current by-laws so that anyone who insists on drinking alcohol in certain streets can be arrested.

The current by-laws aimed at limiting anti-social public drinking in places such as Guildhall do not go far enough, councillors will be told at a meeting on Tuesday night.

Council officers have put forward proposals to increase the powers of police - so they will be able to arrest and charge anyone drinking alcohol in an anti-social way.

Confiscate bottles

At the moment all they can do is report the person to be dealt with later.

Under the new plans, police would also be able to seize and confiscate the bottle or can of drink.

Councillors are also looking at the idea of extending the area where public drinking is controlled.

In future this could include the Gas Hill area, the Riverside development and nearby King Street.

If councillors approve the plans, the new restrictions and tougher penalties could be in force before Christmas.