Designated Public Place Order (DPPO)

In some areas, bye-laws restricting drinking in public places have enabled prosecution of an individual for contravening the bye-law. However, existing bye-laws will cease to have effect on 31 August 2006 and will be replaced by Designated Public Places Orders (DPPO).

DPPOs are orders made by local authorities under powers given to them under section 13 of the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001. These powers make it easier for local authorities to designate places where restrictions on public drinking will apply and are available in areas that have experienced alcohol-related disorder or nuisance.

Over 90 areas across the country have now introduced controlled drinking zones, ranging from small areas to city-wide.

While it is not an offence to consume alcohol within a 'designated' area, the police, police community support officers (PCSOs)and people accredited through a community safety accreditation scheme have powers to control the consumption of alcohol within that place. If they believe someone is consuming alcohol or intends to consume alcohol they can:

• require them to stop; and
• confiscate the alcohol from people whether the drinking vessel is unopened or not.

If someone, without a reasonable excuse, fails to comply with the officer's request they are committing an offence and further action can be taken:

• a penalty notice for disorder of £50;
• arrest and prosecution for a level 2 fine (max £500);
• bail conditions can be used to stop the individual from drinking in public.

Further Information

You can obtain further information from the following:

ASB Unit, Blyth Valley Housing, Dinsdale House, 75 Marine Terrace, Blyth NE24 2LN.

Telephone: ASB Unit Hotline 01670 542060

RNID Typetalk service prefix number 18001

EMail: Anti-Social Behaviour Unit