Greater Taree City Council is seeking feedback on the need for continuation of Alcohol Free Zones in both the Taree and Wingham CBDs.
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The zones were established by council four years ago for the CBD areas of Taree and Wingham to minimise impact of alcohol-related antisocial behaviour. At a recent council meeting a four month entension was given to these existing Alcohol-Free Zones (AFZs) until the end of March 2014.
During the extension period, council will be consulting with relevant stakeholders including residents and businesses, to see just how effective the zones have been.
A report from 2009 outlined concerns regarding excessive street drinking, which was leading to antisocial behaviour, malicious damage to property, littering, offensive behaviour and other crimes.
The current zone in Taree is bounded by Commerce Street, Wynter Street, Stevenson Street, and River Street. In Wingham, the current zone is bounded by Combined Street, Rowley Street, Isabella Street, Wynter Street, Bent Street, Primrose Street and Queen Street. All of the streets and public car parks within those boundaries are included in the zones.
The NSW Police local area command, licensed premises, other nominated contacts and interested community members are being consulted for input as to how effective the zones have been.
“These zones allow police to seize, tip out or otherwise dispose of alcohol from any person observed drinking within the declared areas,” said mayor Paul Hogan.
The establishment of the alcohol-free zones are regulated by Part 4 of the Local Government Act 1993 and the Ministerial Guidelines on Alcohol Free Zones (2009).
Stakeholders having input on how effective the zones have been, may contact Council on 6592 5399 or gtaree@gtcc.nsw.gov.au