Revellers warned over street drinking

Drinkers found taking alcohol onto the streets in Rochdale town centre are being reminded by police that there is an alcohol exclusion zone in place.

The reminder comes following concerns raised by residents and businesses during the monthly Partners and Communities Together (PACT) meetings.

The alcohol exclusion zone means that anyone spotted drinking alcohol on the streets by CCTV cameras, police or pub security staff is instructed to either pass on the contents to the officers if opened or face a fixed penalty notice up to £80 or a fine up to £500.

Police Constable Daniel Shirazi, community beat manager for Rochdale North Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “The fact that this has been raised as a concern during our PACT meeting is a key reminder to everyone who enjoys a night out in the town centre that there are people out there who you have to consider when conducting your actions.”

The zero tolerance approach is also supported by Rochdale's Pub and Club Watch scheme.

The exclusion zone covers the entire town centre as well as outlying areas.

A spokesman for Rochdale Pub and Club Watch said: “We want to get the message across that licensees, police and council will not tolerate drinking on the streets, day or night.

“It is bad for business and bad for the town centre economy.”

Inspector Lin Houldershaw for Rochdale North Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We hope that this will send out a strong message to anyone who tries to flout the law. We also want this to act as a clear measure to prevent people from consuming alcohol in the street particularly during the summer months when the weather is better. If the premises doesn’t have a designated beer garden then drinks should only be consumed inside.”

Jeanette Staley, drug and alcohol action team manager for Rochdale Council, said: “We are committed to protecting the residents and businesses of Rochdale town centre from the negative effects of public drinking. We have recently submitted a report to the scrutiny committee to ensure the continued use of the alcohol consumption in public places order which enforces a borough-wide ban on drinking in public.”