PLANS to introduce no-alcohol zones in Selby town centre to tackle alcohol-fuelled violence and vandalism are poised to go-ahead after a dramatic U-turn.
Selby Town Council members put the scheme on ice in June after a police crackdown cut drink-related crime by 60 per cent in just two months.
But in a dramatic change of heart, councillors attending a special meeting to re-examine the issue on Monday agreed to introduce a stringent booze ban around Abbey Place after receiving a catalogue of complaints from angry residents. Tipsy trouble-makers urinating in doorways, smashing bottles against gravestones and pulling branches off trees in the Abbey grounds are making their lives hell.
Concerned Abbey Place homeowner Peter Muir told members: “They cause all sorts of problems two or three times a week, not just the odd night.”
Abbey vicar the Rev Keith Jukes added: “Visitors are being put off from coming into the church because of the behaviour going on outside. Just a few weeks ago we were in the middle of a funeral service when it was disturbed by youths drinking in the grounds.”
No-alcohol zones have already been introduced – with varying degrees of success – in Barlby, Brayton, Eggborough, Kellington and Sherburn. Anyone caught causing a nuisance can have their booze confiscated, face an on-the-spot fine or a magistrates court appearance.
Selby District Council licensing officer Tim Grogan explained: “There’s nothing wrong with people drinking in the zones as long as they’re not causing crime or disorder. No-alcohol zones give police extra powers to act.”
Coun Doreen Davies said: “There have been problems in and around Abbey Place for many years. I think we should introduce a no-alcohol zone but I have concerns about whether police will be able to monitor it.”
Coun Joyce Dyson added: “If we consider a no-alcohol zone, rather than a blanket ban, we could get displacement where youths just go elsewhere to drink.”
Despite concerns, members voted unanimously in favour of a no-booze zone to include Abbey Place, Church Avenue, Church Hill, Abbey grounds, Market Place, Selby Park and Flaxley Road play area. Members will hold another special meeting later this year to finalise plans.