16th May 2012

LYME REGIS: Seafront alcohol order will reduce crime and make Lyme a ‘safer place’

By Francesca Evans

COUNCILLORS are expected to decide tonight (Wednesday) whether a Designated Public Place Order (DPPO) should be enforced, putting restrictions on alcohol use in Langmoor and Lister Gardens and Marine Parade in Lyme Regis.

Inspector Mike Darby from Bridport Police will attend tonight’s Strategy and Policy Committe to put forward a proposal for the order and answer any questions town councillors may have.

In his report to be put to councillors tonight, Inspector Darby explains that the police have many powers to deal with underage drinkers, including the power to seize alcohol from drinkers under 18, but there is currently little they can do about those over 18 causing alcohol-related anti-social bahviour problems.

He wrote: “We are finding that the problems in Lyme Regis are being caused by people in the 18 to 30 age group. The gardens of Langmoor and Lister are being used by people who are old enough to drink, but are causing anti-social behaviour through their drinking.

“This behaviour is to the detriment of other residents and visitors to the area who wish to walk through and use the gardens, as well as the litter which is being left behind for others to tidy up.

“Unless they are being drunk and disorderly or committing another crime, then the police’s powers are limited.

Inspector Darby said the introduction of a DPPO would “help the community deal with the problem of alcohol-related anti-social behaviour” in Langmoor and Lister Gardens and Marine Parade.

“It is not a total ban of drinking alcohol in public places,” he continued.

“For example, if a person is drinking alcohol sensibly, for instance having a picnic in the gardens, then they will not be affected. It just makes it an offence to carry on drinking alcohol when asked to stop by a police officer or PCSO.”

Under the DPPO, failure to comply with the request of a police officer or PCSO to stop drinking could incur a penalty notice of £50, arrest and prosecution for a level 2 fine (maximu £500) or bail conditions to prevent a person from drinking in public.

Actions taken by the police would depend on the person’s response to the request.

Inspector Darby said the order would help to reduce alcohol-related crime and promote Lyme Regis as a safe place for local residents and visitors alike.

LYME REGIS: Seafront alcohol order will reduce crime and make Lyme a ‘safer place’

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