NEW powers to control drinking in Kidderminster town centre will come into place from Friday (August 28).

Signage has been put in place, enforcing the restriction of alcohol consumption in relation to anti-social behaviour from Friday, August 28.

The decision was approved by members of Wyre Forest District Council's cabinet on March 17, following concerns about the prevalence and visibility of people drinking alcohol in public places in the town centre and the related anti-social behaviour.

Councillor Sally Chambers, cabinet member for community well-being, health and housing, said: "I am pleased to see the introduction of the Public Space Protection Order (PSPO).

"This is a key issue that is causing harm to the local community and is being tackled through our partnership working with West Mercia Police, Worcestershire Regulatory Services and health colleagues.

"The PSPO is part of a much wider strategy in tackling alcohol misuse. Hazardous and harmful use of alcohol has a very real impact on our communities, not only in terms of anti-social behaviour and crime but also upon health and well-being."

The order means that a request can be made to individuals or groups by a police officer, police community support officer or designated local council officer, to stop drinking or hand over alcohol if they are involved in drinking-related anti-social behaviour. If they refuse to do so they could served with a fixed penalty notice of up to £100.

Promoted stories A number of officers from Wyre Forest District Council have been given certain powers by the Chief Constable of West Mercia Police, through the Community Safety Accreditation Scheme (CSAS). The accredited officers are identifiable through the CSAS badge on their uniforms and carry an ID card.

Inspector Edd Williams, responsible for Safer Neighbourhood policing for West Mercia Police, said: "We will do everything we can to fully support the PSPO and hope that it will have a positive impact for people working, living and visiting the town centre.

"We will continue to work in partnership with the Local Authority and other organisations to reduce the harm caused to local communities by those who abuse alcohol.

"We will not be seeking to criminalise those that drink responsibly but the legislation provides an additional tool to help restrict the public consumption of alcohol where that activity results in anti-social behaviour."

Information will also be provided to any person issued with a fixed penalty notice.

A range of support services exist for individuals who are concerned about their alcohol consumption. If you are concerned about your use or use by a friend or family member, contact Swanswell via www.swansell.org.

Further information about the PSPO, including a map of the area, can be found at www.wyreforestdc.gov.uk