Plans to cut town drink problem

Wednesday 14th January 2009, 1:41PM GMT.

Tighter controls could be put in place at boozing problem areas in Ellesmere, in a bid to curb problems with drinking in public places.

People who are drinking alcohol in areas covered by Designated Public Places Orders can be ordered to stop or even have their booze confiscated under the plans.

Members of North Shropshire District Council’s cabinet are set to discuss plans to confirm alcohol control orders for Ellesmere, Wem, Whitchurch and Shawbury at a meeting on Monday.

A report to members says the effect of the orders is to enable an authorised person to tell people who are drinking alcohol in areas covered by an order to stop drinking.

The orders are usually enforced by police but other people can be authorised under the Police Reform Act.

A report to members says: “The case for introducing the orders, given the existing powers of the police to deal with underage drinking is marginal and the evidence is limited. There is however clear community support for the introduction of orders.”

The cost of signs is about £1,000 and can be met.

View more: North Shropshire news.