PUBLIC drinking bans in Stourport and Bewdley could be overturned – but much will depend on what residents think.

Wyre Forest District Council is launching a public consultation exercise to find out what people think of the current bans.

A Public Spaces Preservation Order bans drinking in the two towns, with spot fines of £100.

It was implemented in October after a consultation with residents, and now the council is asking for feedback before it decides if they should carry on.

There are two separate surveys being launched, looking at street drinking in Bewdley and Stourport town centres.

At the moment, council and police officers have the power to order people drinking to hand over any alcohol or dispose of alcohol, with people who fail to do so facing on-the-spot fines of up to £100, or up to £1,000 if the case goes to court.

There is also another survey being launched to get feedback on a controversial ban on walking more than three dogs at a time in Wyre Forest.

All three orders have been hailed as attempts to keep the district a safe, clean and green living environment.

Last year, more than 1,400 people completed a series of online surveys and overwhelmingly supported the renewal of all three orders for a further three years.

But the council is now reviewing these orders individually.

Councillor Helen Dyke, cabinet member for culture, leisure and community protection, said: “When we implemented the orders in October we said we would review them and go back to residents to check they are happy with how they are working.

“I urge residents to get involved by completing the surveys on measures that help keep the district a safe, clean and green living environment. To have your say on the district’s dog controls and street drinking in Bewdley and Stourport, please visit wyreforestdc.gov.uk/pspo.”

The surveys close at 5pm on Wednesday, February 3.