Alcohol Disorder Zones become law

Local authorities have been given the green light to impose controversial alcohol disorder zones (ADZs) after the Violent Crime Reduction Bill received Royal Assent.

However, it is unlikely ADZs will become widespread because a number of councils have spoken against them because they are seen as impractical and creating a bad image for the area.

The new Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006 also gives fresh powers to police to demand a summary review of a premises licence in a serious case of crime or disorder.

And it creates a new law of "persistently selling alcohol to children"​ - making underage sales on three or more different occasions within three consecutive months - which carries a fine of up to £10,000.

Since ADZs were first muted the trade has moved on. Retailers have by and large put their houses in order, stopping irresponsible drinks promotions and underage drinking. We would be very disappointed if ADZs began springing up everywhere​Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers spokeswoman Kate Nicholls.

It also sees the introduction of new drinking banning orders, which could see troublemakers banned from pubs and clubs for up to two years.

Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers spokeswoman Kate Nicholls doubted whether ADZs would be implemented.

"Since ADZs were first muted the trade has moved on. Retailers have by and large put their houses in order, stopping irresponsible drinks promotions and underage drinking. We would be very disappointed if ADZs began springing up everywhere."​

MPs recently rejected 11th-hour proposals that would make it more difficult for councils to impose ADZs.

Lords wanted to ensure ADZs could not be imposed during the eight-week period given to operators to reduce disorder, so long as the "majority" of agreed steps had been taken.

The aim was to stop councils acting "in a pre-emptive way"​ before the trade had a chance to make changes.

MPs said the amendment was not needed because the draft guidance for councils and police on ADZs, drawn up with the Wine and Spirit Trade Association, addresses concerns about authorities jumping the gun.

For example, it says the action plan does not have to be implemented in full.

Nicholls said the next challenge is to ensure the views of alcohol retailers are included in the final guidance for councils on ADZs. This must be drawn up before councils can impose an ADZ. A Home Office spokeswoman said there is currently no timescale for creating the guidance.

If you are a registered user​ please click on the 'Post a new comment' link below to talk about this story and others in our discussion forums.​

If you are not a registered user, click on the same button and follow the links to register for free.