Alcohol consumption to be controlled in Craven Arms

The public consumption of alcohol in and around Craven Arms will be restricted from Friday 15 April 2011 after the town was made a ‘designated public place’.

Under section 13 of the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001, local authorities can designate an area that has experienced alcohol-related antisocial behaviour as a ‘public place’ so that the police can control the consumption of alcohol in that place.

The Designated Public Places Order (DPPO) for Craven Arms was made on Monday 11 April 2011.

The order doesn’t mean that Craven Arms will become an alcohol-free zone, and it wouldn’t become a criminal offence to drink alcohol in the town.  The order is to be used solely to address nuisance or disturbance associated with drinking alcohol, and an offence would only committed if an individual refuses to comply with a police officer’s request to stop drinking.

Councillor Cecilia Motley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for public protection, said:

“DPPOs are an effective way to reduce anti-social behaviour by tackling those people who cause problems when drinking outside.

“These powers are not intended to disrupt peaceful activities, such as families having a picnic with a glass of wine, or individuals or groups who drink and act responsibly.  However, they will help to address nuisance or annoyance associated with the drinking of alcohol.”

David Evans, a Shropshire Councillor for Church Stretton and Craven Arms, said:

“I welcome the DPPO and that the police and Community Support Officers have the council to take alcohol from the people that cause trouble in a small town like Craven Arms.  We need Craven Arms to be a friendly place where people can walk up the street and not feel intimidated.”

Clive Leworthy, Chairman of Craven Arms Town Council, said:

“The town council is pleased that the DPPO is now in place.  We have responded to the request of the local police for this order and the support shown by the community for it to put in place.  We hope that it and other efforts being made will contribute to making the town a more pleasant place for all.”

Advisory signs will be placed at appropriate places within Craven Arms, before the DPPO takes effect.