Wednesday 20 November 2013

Thanet Council - Drinking in public places is no cause for concern

Thanet District Council’s Community Safety Team working together with Kent Police to ensure that residents, businesses and visitors can enjoy the benefits of Thanet, without fear of alcohol-fuelled anti-social behaviour in public.

A Thanet-wide designated Public Places Order (DPPO) has been in place since 2006. The order relates to anti-social behaviour caused by drinking alcohol and is enforceable by the police.

Whilst the order covers the whole district, the council has recently installed new signage at a number of hot spot locations across the district where the council has received repeated complaints. Police will pay particular attention to these areas.

It is important to note that these poweres do not make it a criminal offence to consume alcohol within a designated area. An offence is committed if the individual refuses to comply with a constable's request to refrain from drinking.
The order was introduced to:
  • Cut down on alcohol related anti-social behaviour in public places around the district;
  • Show that anti-social drinking is not acceptable and will not be tolerated in Thanet’s public places;
  • Help make Thanet a place where residents, workers and visitors feel safe.
Councillor Iris Johnston, Cabinet Member for Community Services at Thanet District Council said: “This is positive news for the district. This is not an outright ban from drinking and preventing people from enjoying themselves, but if individuals or groups are causing trouble due to alcohol then the police will act upon that.
“The council is happy to be working alongside Kent Police, to help you enjoy your time here in Thanet.”
Chief Inspector Nick Gossett, Thanet District Commander, said: "We want people to come to Thanet and enjoy themselves, to drink responsibly and to allow others to enjoy themselves too.
“Anti-social behaviour is very distressing to others, particularly children, who have to witness it or pick their way through rubbish that’s been discarded.
“My officers will work with the council to ensure the minority of people who chose to act in an anti-social way will be dealt with, so that everyone can enjoy the district safely.”

If you experience any anti-social behaviour please call a member of the Community Safety Team by calling Thanet District Council on 01843 577000. To report a crime call Kent Police on 101 (in an emergency always dial 999).
ENDS

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