Order to tackle alcohol-related anti-social behaviour could be in place by Christmas

A new order, giving police more powers to crack down on alcohol-related anti-social behaviour in the town centre could be in place for the Christmas party season.

Colchester Borough Council's Cabinet looks set to recommend that the creation of a Designated Public Places Order (DPPO) gets the go ahead at its meeting on 18 October.

If Cabinet does make this recommendation it will then be discussed by the full council on 13 November, and so long as it wins support the order will be in place on 1 December 2006.

The DPPO would create a zone where the police have discretionary powers to confiscate alcohol from adults who are causing disorder.

It won't be an offence to drink alcohol in a Designated Public Place, but anyone who fails to comply with a police officer's request to surrender of alcohol, without reasonable excuse, could be arrested or issued with a Fixed Penalty Notice.

Cllr Margaret Kimberley, Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhoods, said:
"Visitors, residents and businesses of Colchester should be able to enjoy the benefits of our vibrant town centre without having to put up with the disorder caused by the behaviour of people who are drunk and acting in an anti-social way. We are working closely with the police and other organisations to address the problem of anti-social behaviour and we hope that the creation of a DPPO will give extra support to police officers on the ground."

Before making the Order, the Council must be satisfied that there is an existing problem with anti-social drinking in the proposed area. Reports of alcohol related incidents and disorder have been examined in depth by the police, and have been made available to councillors to view before they make their recommendation.

A consultation on the proposals was also carried out earlier this year during which time no objections to the proposed DPPO were received.

If Cabinet recommends the proposals and they are then approved by Council, the effectiveness of the DPPO and level of police enforcement will be reported back to the Cabinet. Any variations or amendments to the proposed Order or any future Orders will be required to be made by full Council.

To view maps which show the area which would be included in the DPPO visit www.colchester.gov.uk/dppo

 
ENDS

Press release issued 11th October 2006