In the Lochee area, there have been concerns about drug abuse and anti-social behaviour.

Chief Inspector Suzie Mertes, head of operational policing in Dundee, said, “Lochee has its own particular issues, which receive the attention of local officers and have been the subject of focused activities such as Operation High Rise.

“High Rise was established in response to concerns from residents about anti-social behaviour and drug-related issues in the area. The Community Engagement Team will build upon the good work undertaken during High Rise and, at the same time, work closely with local officers.

“Those local officers have been working hard to address these issues and we hope the introduction of the community engagement team over the coming weeks will pay further dividends.”

The four police officers that comprised the city’s Anti-Social Behaviour Team are the mainstay of the new unit, and they will continue to be funded as an additional resource by the Dundee Community Safety Partnership.

Their ranks will be bolstered by two local constables and a dedicated sergeant. All of them will work exclusively in the Dundee area, tackling crime and anti-social behaviour specific to the area they are deployed into.

Police said the team’s aim is to achieve a reduction in crime and anti-social behaviour immediately and over the longer term, to enhance the quality of life for people living and working in that area.

The short-term effort will include high-profile patrols in specific areas and engaging with residents to offer reassurance, gather intelligence and deal with criminals.

They will also work with other agencies with a view to finding permanent solutions to local problems — including diversionary activities and appropriate referrals to ensure people seeking to address issues they have are able to access the right help to try to change their lifestyle.

Chief Inspector Mertes said, “The area and its High Street are set to undergo a £2 million programme of regeneration. I am confident that through this deployment of the Community Engagement Team, we can play our part in making a difference for the Lochee community.”

The team is headed by Sergeant Mark Lamont, who said hotspots had already been identified in the area by analysts looking at crime trends.

“We will be doing a lot of foot patrols, and we have some officers trained to go out on bikes as well,” said Sergeant Lamont.

It’s expected that other areas of Dundee will put in “bids” for the team once its stint in Lochee comes to an end.