The three-year PSPO came into force in March and gives police and partners additional powers to tackle behaviour that causes nuisance, alarm or distress in and around the popular retail and leisure destination.

And retailers and customers have welcomed the additional measures, which are helping to create a safer and more welcoming environment for everyone using the site.

The order allows police to require groups of three or more people to leave the area where there is reason to believe they are causing, or are likely to cause, anti-social behaviour. It also gives officers powers to request the removal of face coverings where there is no legitimate reason for them to be worn.

A number of breaches of the PSPO have been identified since it came into effect. In response, officers have issued warnings and, where those involved have been under the age of 18, carried out home visits with Wolverhampton ASB Team to speak directly with families about the consequences of anti-social behaviour and to help prevent further incidents.

Where individuals have breached the PSPO on more than one occasion, referrals have been made to diversionary activities which have, so far, prevented further issues.

Meanwhile, officials have also written to parents of secondary-aged children via schools, advising them that the PSPO is in place.

Inspector Emma Clark, from Wolverhampton Police, said: "We know how much shoppers and visitors, as well as businesses, stores and traders, are impacted by those whose behaviour can be anti-social and unacceptable.

"We do not want people to have to tolerate this, and our teams are regularly patrolling Bentley Bridge with our local neighbourhood officers speaking to staff as well as members of the public to encourage the reporting of ASB, as we act to identify, trace and deal with those involved.

"Part of our work, alongside our partners, is about talking with young people to educate them around how the PSPO works and what that means for them, and potentially their families, if they breach it.

“Officers are also working with Safer Travel colleagues around monitoring and policing bus routes, especially those between Wolverhampton city centre and Bentley Bridge. And we continue to ask people to let us know about incidents of ASB, either by calling 101 or messaging on Live Chat on our website.”

Councillor Obaida Ahmed, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, added: "Bentley Bridge is an important destination for shopping and leisure, and it is vital that people feel safe and welcome when they visit.

"The early signs are very encouraging, and we are pleased that retailers, staff and visitors are seeing the benefits of the PSPO, and the work we are doing in partnership with Safer Travel officers to address any concerns around anti-social behaviour on the number 59 bus route.

"While the vast majority of young people behave responsibly, we will continue to work closely with police, businesses and local partners to tackle the minority whose behaviour has a negative impact on others.

"And where breaches do occur, appropriate action will be taken to help ensure Bentley Bridge remains a safe and enjoyable place for everyone."