I know its a bit late to answer this question but if kids were given more praise than brickbats, they'd behave differently. ie its good you have your friends to hang a round with, that you all have fun together - even at someone else's expense. Its harmless. Even the egg throwing. Yes its a bit of a ******, but hey cool it and they might actually stop.
Yoofs as a whole are not the problem as yoof clubs are not the answer - too many do-gooders. I'd be off as well. Its not seen as cool thing to be there.
Bring back the funding for youth schemes and junior internet cafes. Ours closed down due to local goverment funding running out so now our teens really have nothing to do again. Sports clubs are too expensive and not everyone wants to be a guide or in the BB, so they're hanging about the corners and parks again.
Strangely our local council spends quite a lot making sure teens with mental health probs are given internet access, days out and plenty of things to do. The 'normal' kids who are losing out.
PS. I have had no trouble passing groups of lads. I walk steadily and with purpose. No show of worry and no show of aggression. If eye contact is made, I'll give a wee nod in their direction. No worries. I leave them to their shuffling and they leave me alone.