Alcohol control zone could expand

In 2007, alcohol was confiscated on 998 occasions in the city centre area

Controls on drinking in public could be extended under plans being considered by councillors in Nottingham.

Proposals to curb public consumption of alcohol in Sneinton, Forest and Mapperley, have been put forward after reports of problem behaviour.

Designated public places orders were first put in place in the city centre in 2005 and Hyson Green in 2006.

These make it an offence to drink when asked by an authorised person to stop, or to refuse to hand over alcohol.

The police can arrest those who fail to comply.

Applying restrictions in problem areas can act as an effective deterrent and stop problems developing Councillor Eunice Campbell

Concerns were raised by the police, residents, community groups and businesses regarding problems related to drinking.

If enforced, the order would make it an offence either to continue drinking when asked by an authorised person to stop, or by failing to surrender alcohol when asked to do so.

The police could arrest those who fail to comply.

If the proposal is approved, the order will be enforced from 23 May.

The effects of the order would be assessed after six months.

In 2007, alcohol was confiscated on 998 occasions and over 1,000 warnings were issued in the city centre area.

Councillor Eunice Campbell, portfolio holder for customer services, consultation and area working said: "Drinking in public places can lead to anti-social behaviour and makes people feel unsafe.

"Applying restrictions in problem areas can act as an effective deterrent and stop problems developing."