A BOOZE ban is set to be imposed on Purewell as police and Christchurch council tighten their clampdown on yobs in the area.

Last month the authorities invoked new powers under the antisocial behaviour legislation to allow police to disperse groups of youths found causing a nuisance around Purewell Cross.

Now there are plans to extend the alcohol-free zone orders covering the town centre and Mudeford Wood to include the Purewell and surrounding residential roads.

The order, which prohibits drinking in public and gives police the power to confiscate alcohol, is also proposed to cover the town's 2 Riversmeet sports centre and adjoining arena site, Monkswell Green and parts of Stanpit, Mudeford Lane and Somerford Road.

The proposals are now out to public consultation until May 27 and a map showing the area proposed can be seen at the Civic Offices in Bridge Street, Christchurch Library and Christchurch Information Centre.

Results of the consultation will come before the council's community services committee at the end of June and the order could be in force by mid-July.

Council community safety development officer Katharine Dew said: "The alcohol-free zone is part of a wider effort to deal with antisocial behaviour in Purewell. Other initiatives include improved CCTV coverage with an additional camera now in operation, environmental improvements, increased police presence, community involvement and, most recently, the implementation of a Dispersal Order under Section 30 of the Antisocial Behaviour Act 2003.

"Statistics show that Christchurch is a safe place to live, with very low crime levels compared to other areas. Christchurch Community Safety Action Group, which is part of the Community Partnership, is committed to maintaining these low crime levels and improving public confidence.

"The Community Safety Action Group is also aiming to support the development of youth facilities across the borough to give groups of young people something else to do."

Insp Andy Earley of Christchurch Police said: "The existing alcohol- free zones in the town centre and Mudeford Wood have proved successful and it is hoped that the same will be true in Purewell."

First published: May 13