BOURNEMOUTH council has won an anti-social behaviour order (ASBO) over late night bad behaviour in part of Southbourne.

Residents have said the area is suffering from rough sleepers, too many off-licences and too much drinking after dark.

Ward councillor Chris Mayne told the Echo: “Southbourne is a nice area and we are not too keen on the problems drinking is causing.

“I certainly have concerns about the sale of alcohol at night.”

The problem is said to be around Southbourne Grove.

Residents outlined their concerns in 10 letters of objection to an unsuccessful attempt to stop Southbourne Fried Chicken selling alcohol with food.

Frank Bayes wrote: “I cannot see this will do anything other than exacerbate the drinking and rough sleeper problems we already have in Southbourne Grove.”

Alison Hunt described being “terrorised” at a bus stop by a man repeatedly smashing an empty bottle against the shelter.

She wrote: “Please consider my pleas as a single woman who does not want to lock herself in at home to avoid more drunken people at large in a place that is otherwise delightful.”

Jacqueline Hubbard wrote: “Fishermans Walk and Southbourne Grove suffer from public drinking which generates noise, anti-social behaviour and extra rubbish.”

Bournemouth council said it was working with Dorset Police to tackle the problems in the area and urged people to report anti-social behaviour on 01202 451 433.

Andy Williams, the council’s safer and stronger communities manager, said: “In response to concerns raised by residents and the local community, we have taken action. “Recently we attained an ASBO on one member of a known group, and we are currently gathering evidence to take further enforcement action on two other members of the same group.”