Police raise smoking ban concerns

Policing the smoking ban has raised a string of concerns

Dumfries and Galloway Police have raised a string of concerns about the impact of the smoking ban.

Despite a relatively low level of complaints from the public, area commanders say a number of issues have arisen about policing the ban.

Increased noise and drinking outside pubs, litter problems and aggressive behaviour towards passers-by are cited as areas for concern.

A further report is to be delivered by police six months into the ban.

Dumfries and Galloway councillors called for a report on the subject after the ban was introduced in Scotland and 26 March.

Police say there are a range of issues surrounding the increased number of people smoking outside licensed premises.

Criminal offence

Some residents near pubs have complained about increased noise, a problem expected to increase in the summer months.

There has also been an increase in drinking on the streets which police say is a criminal offence in areas where a by-law is in force.

The situation has prompted some concerns about the possibility of people who have been drinking stepping out in front of passing cars.

However, police say the level of complaints have been relatively low and many premises have enough space outside to cope with the number of people involved.