Drinking alcohol has been banned in Bristo Square under a new bylaw aimed at curbing incidents of antisocial behaviour.
The University of Edinburgh  has joined with the council and police to enforce the new bylaw, which comes into force at the same time as a separate law banning consumption of alcohol in nearby Nicholson Square.

Last month the university began a crackdown on skateboarders and drunks reportedly harassing students in Bristo Square, and signs have now been posted to inform the public of the new laws. Leaflets have also been distributed to local residents and businesses.

Adam Conn, head of security at the University, told the Edinburgh Evening News that he was supportive of the latest moves to prevent street drinking.

He said, “We welcome any initiative that helps to improve the quality of life in the local community.”

Bristo Square had previously been fitted with CCTV cameras, but the cameras were removed when building refurbishments were made and never replaced.

Superintendent John Hawkins, from Lothian and Borders police, told the press, “these bylaws are another example of how good partnership working can make a real difference to communities.

“We know that issues such as antisocial behaviour have a huge effect on local neighbourhoods, and through this sort of enforcement, combined with our commitment to community engagement, we will make communities safer.”

The council’s community safety leader, Paul Edie, told the Edinburgh Evening News,“The new signs will give out a firm message that we are prepared to use bylaws and other tools to diminish disorder and to stop antisocial behaviour at these squares before it becomes a problem again.”