Time Called on Street Drinkers

16 August 2012

Intensive campaigning and enforcement aims to reduce alcohol related
disorder on Walsall's streets.

Launched in response to growing concerns over street drinking in the
town centre and Caldmore, Walsall South Area Partnership and West
Midlands Police are co-ordinating a number of initiatives to eradicate
nuisance and intimidating behaviour fuelled by alcohol.

Walsall Councils Community Safety Team is also providing pro-active
support.

A newly established police team will dedicate itself to the cause by
issuing street drinkers with notices which gives them 48 hours to vacate
an area. Non-compliance can result in enforcement action being taken
against offenders.

Under the Designated Public Order Places Order police can take
possession of any alcohol being consumed in a public place.

Councillor Zahid Ali, portfolio holder for Public Protection with
Walsall Council Coalition, said: "We are sending a clear message to
people who think it is okay to drink alcohol in the streets and in open
public spaces, this will not be tolerated.

"This type of behaviour is a menace to our community. People should be
able to walk down their own street or go shopping and visit places of
interest without feeling threatened and intimidated by these drinkers.

"It is also presenting the wrong image of Walsall and having a negative
impact on those who visit our town."

Sergeant Adam Reynolds at Walsall Police said: "We are committed to
protecting the people of Walsall from anti-social behaviour that often
occurs from excessive alcohol.

"Drinkers will face tough penalties and we urge the public to report any
inappropriate behaviour to support our on going efforts to keep Walsall
safe."

For further information please contact: Steve Sharma on 01922 650824
sharmasteve@walsall.gov.uk

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