More than half the beggars in Brighton and Hove could be swept from the streets by next spring.

The city council has set the target after receiving evidence that more of them are becoming hooked on heroin.

The knock-on effect has been a marked increase in aggressive begging.

One beggar was spotted demanding cash from 15 people in 17 minutes.

A report due to go before the city's environment committee tomorrow outlines a new strategy for addressing the issue. Its central aim is to reduce street begging by 60 per cent by March next year.

It says: "During the past year there has been a distinct change to a more aggressive style of begging linked to funding the use of Class A hard drugs.

"Levels of public tolerance have further declined and fear of crime has increased.

"Street drinking and begging have a negative impact on the city and its image as a vibrant, cosmopolitan and up-to-date progressive place to be.

"Shoppers and office workers during the day find the presence of beggars invasive and threatening, particularly at cash points and pay machines.

"For night-time leisure and entertainments users, the impact is more intimidating, making the public feel considerably less safe than during the daytime."

Research carried out by the council has so far identified about 30 people who regularly beg in the city and another 20 termed occasional beggars.

Most are not homeless but live in hostels or night shelters. Heroin is cited as being the most common drug but others are addicted to crack cocaine.

The report says: "Clearly this type of antisocial behaviour has an extremely negative impact and causes alarm."

The strategy proposes involving the police, council and outside agencies, and providing support to help those who want to get off the streets and change their lifestyles.

Those who refuse to take up offers of support can expect police intervention, backed up with antisocial behaviour orders (Asbos), which can lead to prison.

Wednesday June 30, 2004