Council listens to public's views on pilot drink zone
The council is proposing to set up a 'controlled drinking area' following close work with the police to tackle drink-related anti-social behaviour in the Jerdan Place area of Fulham. Residents and businesses in the area have been asked for their views and the proposal is now with the council.
People living and working in the area were asked for their views during the period August to October. The proposed 'controlled drinking area' would not mean a total ban on alcohol, but would give the police the power to stop people drinking in the area and to confiscate any opened or unopened alcohol. If anyone refuses to comply with a police request, then they would be committing a criminal offence.
The proposed area currently includes:
· Vanston Place
· Jerdan Place
· The Churchyard of St John's
· The section of North End Road between Walham Grove and Fulham Road.
· Fulham Broadway between North End Road and Vanston Place
· Fulham Road between North End Road and Heckfield Place
People who responded to the consultation were very strongly in favour of the controlled drinking area. Following concerns expressed during the consultation, the proposed area was extended to include more of North End Road, Fulham Broadway and Fulham Road. The area will now be considered by the council at a council meeting next year.
Cllr Andrew Jones from Fulham Broadway ward, said: "People in the area have a right to be free from the public nuisance often associated with drinking in the street. The council's determination to curb anti-social street drinking in this part of Fulham, is another positive step forward in the regeneration of the North End Road area.
"Our consultation has shown that most residents and businesses are in favour of the proposed controlled drinking area."
Borough Commander, Heather Valentine said: "The proposed controlled drinking area would give the police the necessary extra powers to step in and stop people behaving in a drunken or loutish way. We're pleased the public seem to be in favour of this proposal."
Residents and businesses will be able to make their views about the proposed zone at council meetings. For more information call the community safety unit on 020 8753 2816.
April 15, 2004
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