Dispersal power lapses as police claim success
Aberdeen "bouley bashers" seen off under new laws
Grampian Police are claiming success for their use of the special dispersal powers under the Antisocial Behaviour Act in tackling young drivers on Aberdeen's Beach Boulevard.
The order empowering the police to move the drivers on has not been renewed after its second three-month term expired on Sunday.
The disturbances caused by late-night "bouley bashers", young drivers congregating on the boulevard, resulted in the area becoming Scotland's first dispersal zone in March. It allowed police to ban people from the area for up to 24 hours.
During the first three months, 62 people were formally dispersed. The order was renewed and in the second period, only nine people were moved on in this way.
Police said there had been a fall of 43% in complaints and the nature of the calls had also changed, with fewer complaints about car racing.
Temporary Chief Superintendent Albert Donald said that the force had adopted a proactive approach to a longstanding problem which had been well received by residents and responsible drivers who frequented the area.
Current News05.09.08 PM changes tack on tax-raising powersAllowing Scottish Parliament more accountability would strengthen the UK, says Brown 05.09.08 Summary justice reform success, claims AngioliniLord Advocate's letter says figures to date indicate new system working 04.09.08 Advocates in Aberdeen launch new websiteInternet presence aimed at increasing awareness of Society of Advocates in the north east 04.09.08 Legal profession, local income tax top bill listScottish Government unveils legislative programme for 2008-09 04.09.08 Step up to associate for Fife lawyerSue Arrowsmith promoted at Murray Donald Drummond Cook LLP 04.09.08 Prosecution inspectorate publishes annual reportReview pending of new fiscal fine system 03.09.08 Society welcomes Legal Profession BillHopes that bill will provide for alternative business structures for law firms 03.09.08 'No proof that plaques harmful': insurance lawyersIndustry's legal team argue against proposed law extending compensation 03.09.08 Commissioner orders release of tender informationCouncil not justified in claim that Street Outreach documents must be kept secret 02.09.08 Stamp duty break for lower value properties12-month threshold of £175,000 among government moves to buck up housing market 01.09.08 Government publishes sentencing proposalsJudges and sheriffs would need to reveal reasons for departing from guidelines 01.09.08 Revenue reminds of new tax return date31 October now deadline for paper returns 01.09.08 Blackadders' review results in 44 job lossesTwo branches also close as firm consolidates to combat property market troubles 01.09.08 Area procurator fiscal appointment for CentralMichelle Macleod takes on new role 01.09.08 Partner catch for Ledingham ChalmersNeil Anderson appointed, while Marysia Lewis takes up floating sheriff appointment |