Buffer zones to prevent anti-abortion protests outside hospitals and clinics will come into force within weeks.

The Safe Access Zones Bill will take effect from September 24.

The new law, passed in June this year by the Scottish Parliament will make it an offence to protest within 200 metres of a healthcare facility.

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The bill was brought forward by Green MSP, Gillian Mackay, after regular protests, some involving dozens of people were held outside facilities including the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, The Royal Infirmary and the Sandyford Clinic in Glasgow.

The bill had overwhelming support of MSPs with 118 out of a possible 129 voting in favour of introducing the restrictions.

Mackay said the law will stop the “intimidating anti-choice protests that have taken place across Scotland”.

She said: “This is a pivotal moment for reproductive rights in Scotland. I am delighted that we have an implementation date and that change is coming.

“For far too long, women all over Scotland have been forced to endure gauntlets of protesters with graphic banners and sometimes even megaphones trying to stop them from accessing the healthcare they are entitled to. It is organised intimidation and harassment, and it is wrong.

“The protesters have heard the same testimony as I have and know all about the pain, distress and hurt that they are causing for patients and medical staff. Now, at last, we are only weeks away from stopping them for good.”

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The campaign to stop the protests had the support of medical and healthcare professionals and women's groups including BMA Scotland, Back off Scotland and the STUC Women’s Committee.

Mackay added: “I want to thank everyone who took the time to share what I know were difficult and traumatic experiences with me and who made this Act as strong and robust as it can be. It should never have happened, and I hope that nobody else will have to go through what they have.”