IPSWICH'S third dispersal order was today introduced on an estate in the north east of the town plagued by anti-social behaviour.Police, along with Ipswich borough and Suffolk county councils, have posted notices in the Freehold Road area banning groups from loitering between 9pm and 6am.

IPSWICH'S third dispersal order was today introduced on an estate in the north east of the town plagued by anti-social behaviour.

Police, along with Ipswich borough and Suffolk county councils, have posted notices in the Freehold Road area banning groups from loitering between 9pm and 6am.

The latest crackdown follows the introduction of two other orders, in Queen's Way and Reynolds Road, Ipswich, last September.

But Dave Dring, Ipswich east inspector, denied the problem has simply been shifted elsewhere.

He said: "This isn't the case. In Ipswich, like any other town, there will always be places where young people choose to meet. In the majority of cases, this doesn't cause any problems whatsoever. However, on occasions the actions of some people falls well below what is considered as acceptable.

"This has led to residents feeling harassed and intimidated, as has become the case in Freehold Road."

Cut fuel lines on cars, demolished walls and abusive behaviour are examples of the crime committed on the estate.

One resident said: "A lot of people are moving away because they have had enough. It used to be a respectable area. If I could get out, I would. I hate it."

Insp Dring said: "Over recent months, officers have spent a great deal and time and effort responding to the concerns of people living in the area of Freehold Road. Unfortunately, there are a small number of individuals who hang around the area in groups who have been involved in low-level anti-social behaviour."

Neil Macdonald, Ipswich borough councillor, backed the move but added: "I'd like to stress it's for a short period to get a small number of troublemakers under control."

The order, in place for an initial six-months, includes powers for officers to take young people under the age of 16 home, or to a place of safety, after 9pm if not supervised by an adult.

Copleston Road, Parliament Road, Newbury Road, along with parts of Cauldwell Hall Road, Britannia Road, Crabbe Street, Kemball Street, are also covered by the order.