Repeated antisocial behaviour offenders may be restricted from town centres under new, tougher police powers being brought into force.

The Home Office said the new Respect Orders filled a gap in existing anti-social behaviour powers, and would give police and councils the ability to take stronger enforcement action.

As well as police and local councils, housing associations and transport networks will also be able to apply for a Respect Order under the new rules.

The Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 classifies antisocial behaviour as “behaviour by a person which causes, or is likely to cause, harassment, alarm or distress to persons not of the same household as the person”.

The Metropolitan Police distinguish between 15 types of antisocial behaviour, including disruptive unlicensed drinking in public spaces, littering and “general nuisance behaviour”.

Frequent offenders could be hit with curfew bans, or be ordered to cease drinking in public centres, including high streets and local…