NEW legislation giving police officers power to confiscate opened bottles and cans of alcohol in designated no drinking areas is being supported by Essex Police.

The Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001 permits councils to designate public places as non-drinking areas. Curbs on drinking in public places have been imposed in the past by way of council bylaws.

The new legislation is regarded by the force as an opportunity to enforce bans by strengthening cooperation with councils. Anyone who refuses to hand over an opened bottle or can will be subecjt to prosecution.

It is expected that bans under the Criminal Justice and Police Act will be phased in gradually by councils.

Existing bylaws will have to be replaced under the new lewgislation before the end of 2006.

Superintendent John Mauger, Essex Police's head of community safety, said: "This adds further strength to the bonds forged during the past two years between police and councils under the Crime and Disorder Act, which created partnerships to foster the quality of local life.

"It presents a good opportunity to combat behaviour which offends the public."

November 27, 2001 13:08