Islington Tribune - News: Emirates fans face street drinking ban

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Islington Tribune - by ROISIN GADELRAB
Published: 28 December 2007

Emirates fans face street drinking ban

Bigger stadium brings rise in match-day trouble

UNRULY Arsenal fans who like a drink on match days could have their cans of alcohol confiscated under plans to extend police powers.
In response to requests from police for help in dealing with rising alcohol-related trouble on match days, Islington Council has agreed to consider changing its licensing policy for the streets surrounding the Emirates Stadium.
The council says a public consultation exercise it has launched does not include an option for a blanket ban on drinking in the streets, although police favour a ban covering a specific period on match days.
A council spokesman assured smokers drinking in pubs near the stadium that they will still be allowed to take drinks outside in plastic cups.
“It wouldn’t be a blanket ban on drinking but it does give police discretionary powers to confiscate alcohol if those consuming it are causing problems in particular locations,” he added.
The plans were revealed in a document published last month on the council’s draft licensing policy. It read: “As part of the joint strategy to create a safe environment on match days the licensing authority, with the Metropolitan Police, intends to consult residents, businesses and visitors about setting up a controlled drinking zone around the Emirates Stadium.
“The controlled drinking zone (CDZ) will not ban the consumption of alcohol in public areas but will give the police additional powers to deal with the minority of people who cause anti-social behaviour while consuming alcohol.”
A spokeswoman for Islington police said: “A controlled drinking zone is one of many tools being considered by Islington police to tackle an increase in disorderly incidents on match days. Police are now undertaking a thorough consultation process with their partners and the community before a final decision is made.”
She added: “The CDZ is being considered because the number of people drinking in the street before and after matches has greatly increased since Arsenal moved to the much-larger Emirates Stadium. The smoking ban has also had an impact, encouraging more people to drink outside.
“This has led to an increase in the number of incidents and complaints from residents.
“The proposed zone would prevent people drinking alcohol in the streets during a set time frame on match days, giving police the power to confiscate alcohol. Fans would still be able to drink in the pubs in the same area.”

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