More alcohol-free areas for Royal Borough

The number of alcohol-free areas in the borough is set to almost double as the council continues to crack down on drinking in public places.

Councillors last night (Tuesday) agreed to increase the total number of alcohol-free locations across the borough from 64 to 111 by approving a new single Designated Public Places Order giving the police the power to order people to stop drinking and confiscate the alcohol if they refuse. Refusal can lead to a fine of up to £500.

The order - which follows widespread public consultation earlier in the year - will cover streets, parks and other areas where people gather and alcohol-related anti-social behaviour could pose a problem. It will replace two existing orders introduced in 2002 and 2006.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for highways and streetcare, said:"We are determined to clamp down on anti-social behaviour in our streets and public areas by continuing to increase the number of alcohol-free areas in the borough.

"Both the two previous orders have been extremely effective in reducing anti-social drinking. We are confident that by nearly doubling the number of alcohol-free areas we will continue to send out the very strong message that we want the borough to be a safe and clean place to live and work.

"We consulted widely with both residents and parish and ward councillors earlier this year and listened to everyone's concerns before proposing this new order. This is what our residents have demanded and our officers have delivered.

"We will not tolerate or accept anti-social behaviour in the Royal Borough."

For a full list of the new areas see www.rbwm.gov.uk/public/meetings_council_090421_DPP0_report.pdf.

Signs will be erected at the new alcohol-free areas once the new order has been advertised in the local press, and implementation of the order will begin in early May.