LAW-breaking licensees in Bournemouth town centre could be forced to close as part of tough new measures unveiled by Dorset police yesterday to curb alcohol-fuelled violence.

For the first time in the county, pubs and clubs found continually flouting licensing regulations could face being shut down for 24 hours.

Addressing 100 delegates at a Safer Bournemouth seminar at AFC Bournemouth, alcohol licensing enforcement officer Sgt Chris Weeks said: "For the first time we will be considering 24-hour closure orders.

"Similar orders have been used by Hampshire police as the ultimate sanction for licensees who refuse to tackle under-age drinking and public disorder problems in their premises."

Other measures include high-profile policing in licensed premises, the use of a 'sniffer' dog to help combat drug abuse in clubs and pubs and the employment of taxi marshals to reduce violence at trouble-spot ranks.

A Saftex scheme to enable the pre-booking of taxis, more late-night bus services and road closures to ensure pedestrian safety are also being considered.

Yesterday marked the launch of a 24-hour phone hotline - on 01202 222888 - to encourage people to seek advice and report breaches of licensing laws.

Bournemouth divisional commander Chief Supt Bob Boulton told licensees, local councillors and taxi firms that nine community support officers would be on the streets of Bournemouth by the end of the year.

"Statistics show that public disorder equals alcohol-fuelled violence," he said. "The evening economy is our biggest challenge and we want to encourage more families to come into the town centre at night. People don't feel safe so they don't come into Bournemouth. A greater presence of authority will help provide that reassurance."

First published: October 26