POLICE have been given new powers to break up groups of people hanging around in the Hockley and Sneinton areas.
The new 'dispersal order' has been set to tackle antisocial behaviour.
It means that police officers and community support officers will be able move on and separate groups of two or more people if they believe the group is harassing, intimidating, alarming or distressing anyone.
If those people return to the area within 24 hours they could be arrested.
The order covers an area that includes Bath Street, Southwell Street, Hockley, Belward Street, Barker Gate, Stoney Street and Beck Street. It will be in place for the next six months.
PC Gary Whitt, beat manager for the Lace Market, said: "The order was put in place to tackle antisocial behaviour caused by groups of two or more individuals in the Goosegate, Hockley and Sneinton Market areas.
"Residents and businesses in these areas reported issues with alcohol related antisocial behaviour caused by street drinkers and damage being caused to the new Sneinton Square by groups of skateboarders.
"The order aims to tackle the issue of street drinking and low level criminal damage, encourage businesses to stay in the area and hopefully encourage new business to move in."
Dawn Hartley, owner of independent cafe Hartley's in Carlton Street, welcomed the move.
She said: "Hockley has got such a lovely feel about it and it is an area that seems to be back on its way up.
"Anything like this that can help enhance and preserve it is a complete advantage, and it supports local shops, it encourages shoppers to come up.
"There are quite a lot of police around, we feel quite protected anyway.
"We have contact details of the local community police officers so if there are any problems we can contact them."
Notices have been placed in the area informing residents about the times and dates that the order will be in place.
Are you plagued by antisocial behaviour? E-mail our newsdesk at newsdesk@nottinghampostgroup.co.uk
