PROBLEM spots in Brandlesholme could be among the first zones in the country declared off-limits to nuisance teenagers.

The measure is being considered following a major crackdown on anti-social behaviour in the district.

The topic was raised at a meeting of Bury West Area Board on Tuesday, when a Throstle Grove resident complained of "marauding gangs of youths".

At hot-spots including Brandlesholme Road shopping parade and surrounding streets, he said, old people felt increasingly intimidated.

"Elderly folk are dreading the summer months," he added.

"If the problems are like this in the spring, then what are they going to be like when it is warmer and evenings are longer?"

Inspector Dave McElroy told the audience that police were investigating the possibility of "dispersal areas".

This would mean that, for a limited period, groups could be forbidden from entering a place where they had caused harassment, alarm or distress.

Failure to comply would constitute an offence.

Currently, only two such areas exist in the country: one in Merseyside and one in Cheshire.

He added that a dozen arrests had been made in Brandlesholme over a four week period in January as part of Operation Wolsey. The exercise is targeted at cutting youth nuisance in the Bury West area and is being concentrated on particular suspects.

Insp McElroy told those present: "This operation is continuing and if anybody has details of individuals that they can give me, I will make statements on their behalf."

In addition, staff from Bury's Youth Offending Team will be visiting the area with youth workers to build a rapport with teenagers and encourage use of a new ball zone facility.

Councillor Yvonne Creswell added that although there was currently no building for young people in Brandlesholme, efforts were being made to secure vacant council properties for indoor activities.