Alcohol-free streets for Wardell

ALCOHOL could be banned in the main streets of Wardell after police urged Ballina Shire Council to implement an alcohol-free zone in an effort to stop violence.

ALCOHOL could be banned in the main streets of Wardell after police urged Ballina Shire Council to implement an alcohol-free zone in an effort to stop violence and crime.

Police from the Richmond Local Area Command’s licensing office have written to the council asking for several alcohol-free zones to be renewed for another three years.

They also suggested that a new zone was needed in Wardell.

Officers said reducing alcohol-related problems was a priority for police.

“In recent times police have received an increasing number ofreports of assaults and antisocial behaviour in the vicinity of the Royal Hotel Wardell,” the letter to the council says.

“It is reported that people are purchasing alcohol at the hotel in single serves and moving in and out of the hotel and surrounds whilst consuming these drinks.”

The zone would affect Richmond Street, Sinclair Street and Bridge Drive.

Councillors have voted to consult with the Wardell community before implementing the alcohol-free zone.

Patrick Carney, from the Wardell Progress Association, welcomed moves for an alcohol-free zone.

“I haven’t noticed an increase in violence, but I still think it’s a good idea,” he said.

Originally published as Alcohol-free streets for Wardell