We had a Safer Neighbourhoods Team panel meeting last night. We discussed this topic at length, not that it is a problem in winter time, but we know that come the summer they will be out again.

Paddy Power is part of the problem as they are very happy for anybody to pop-in and waste a few coins on the fruit machines to avoid the police when they come along.

Police are handing out dispersal orders which prevent street drinkers returning to the area for up to 48 hours (or face a hefty fine). Those who are repeatedly caught drinking in the street and intimidating others can be served with ASBOs which would provide a longer term solution.

There are only a few street drinkers in the area and most mind their own business, so letting the police know when there is a problem should have some impact.