New measures have been introduced in the Bethesda area by Gwynedd Council to crackdown on anti-social behaviour and crime linked to alcohol misuse.
Since 1 March 2012, a Designated Public Places Order has been issued for the town and some of the surrounding areas.
People drinking alcohol in these designated areas can be asked to hand it over to a police officer in certain circumstances, for example if the misuse of alcohol is found to be causing a nuisance.
Failure to comply with the request can lead to an arrest, and conviction could lead to a maximum fine of £500.
This is the seventh area of Gwynedd to be subject to an order of this kind – each has been implemented because of concerns and evidence that alcohol misuse has led to an increase in crime and anti social behaviour.
The designated area is clearly signposted and members of the public can request full details about the order by contacting Gwynedd Council:
Email – [email protected]
Telephone – 01766 771000
By post – Legal Department, Gwynedd Council, Shirehall Street, Caernarfon LL554YY
Simon Barrasford, the Police Inspector responsible for the Bethesda area, said: “I have been really impressed in the way that the Council, Police and other Partners have worked so closely together to make this Order a realisation.
“It is a fantastic result for the Community of Bethesda and the Order will provide an additional tool for our Neighbourhood Police Team to use to combat anti social behaviour.
“I would encourage the Community of Bethesda to continue providing us with information of any breaches of the Order and they have my assurance that we will be policing this Order robustly.”
Catherine Roberts, Gwynedd Council’s Community Safety Manager, added: “The Police and Council, together with other partners, are working together within the Gwynedd Community Safety Partnership to do all we can to tackle crime and disorder in our communities.
“This recent order is one example of how the partnership continues to recognise the effect that the misuse of alcohol can have on our towns and villages.
“Sensible, responsible drinking is not an issue, but unfortunately too many of us are forgetting that alcohol consumption can quickly lead to offending behaviour, and has vast health implications for the individual.”
To report a crime in this area, or any other region, contact North Wales Police on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
For more information about safe drinking, and services available in Gwynedd, visit the North Wales Drug and Alcohol Information website www.nwsmf.org.uk
