POLICE have targeted part of the Footscray central business district to test new search powers in a crackdown on drunkenness and violence.

Under new search laws enacted last month, police can declare areas designated search zones if they have a history of weapon use or if police believe an incident will happen.

On January 7, a block north of the Maribyrnong town hall will be the first area to be searched under the legislation. For three hours, police will be authorised to carry out weapons searches without warrants on members of the public, in their vehicles, and in ''anything'' under their control.

Police can seize weapons, request identification and detain people or vehicles to carry out the search.

The declaration was contained in the Victorian Government Gazette on New Year's Eve. Under the new laws, the designated areas must be advertised seven days in advance.