Consultation on New Addington controlled drinking zone

Croydon Council is planning to target drink-related antisocial behaviour and nuisance in the vicinity of Central Parade by imposing the street drinking ban.

The move follows complaints from local residents and businesses concerned about the levels of antisocial behaviour and crime in the area.

The proposed zone covers the whole of the Central Parade area; from New Addington tram stop in the north to St Edward's Church in the south, and from Salcott Crescent in the east through to Chertsey Crescent in the west.

Under powers set down in the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001, local authorities have the ability to impose such bans where there is a nuisance or annoyance being caused to members of the public as a result of alcohol consumption.

Enforcement of the ban is carried out by the police who can request a person to stop drinking or surrender their drink to be disposed of in the dry zone. Failure to do so is a criminal offence and can lead to arrest or a fixed penalty fine of £50.

Public consultation has begun on the proposal, which has the backing of the council, the police and many residents, businesses and community representatives.

Anyone wishing to make a representation about the proposal should do so in writing to Mike Pilgrim, Acting Director, Environment, Culture and Public Protection, Croydon Council, Taberner House, Park Lane, Croydon, CR9 3BT, by Thursday 5 June.

Cllr Steve O'Connell, cabinet member for safety and cohesion, said: "Groups of rowdy and intoxicated street drinkers can be intimidating to the average passer-by and incidents of antisocial behaviour, however small, have a detrimental effect on the local community. We are not seeking to stop people drinking socially, such as outdoor bars and restaurants, but simply aiming to deter the small minority of people who cause a nuisance to others."

Council and democracy