Rusholme & Fallowfield Councillors Welcome Street Drinking Ban

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Fri 1st Jul 2005

New "Alcohol Restriction Zone" across Rusholme and Fallowfield.

Rusholme and Fallowfield's Liberal Democrat Councillors today welcomed the brand new "Alcohol Restriction Zone" in the areas they represent.

The new law, which prohibits on-street drinking, has just been agreed by the Council's Licensing Committee and will come into effect on 16 July. It will cover Wilmslow Road from the Hospitals/ Whitworth Park down to Latchmere Road in Fallowfield, and also most of residential Rusholme, East and West of Wilmslow Road.

"Unfortunately there are high levels of crime in South Manchester, and much of it is linked to alcohol" said Rusholme Councillor Lynne Williams. "That's why we were keen to support the Street Drinking ban. Public spaces are for all to enjoy, and a rowdy minority must not be allowed to spoil things for everyone."

Fallowfield Councillor John-Paul Wilkins agreed:

"Our local police officers now have an extra tool to use against those committing Anti Social Behaviour. But there is no substitute for police officers walking the beat, so I will continue to campaign for more local bobbies in Fallowfield, where we have serious problems with Anti Social Behaviour."

Councillor Paul Shannon, Rusholme Ward, said:

"Last year I wrote to the Council giving our support for these proposals. I am pleased that the ban is now a reality."