No-drink zones to cut crime | Clarence Valley News | Local News in Clarence Valley

The council is seeking comment on proposed extended alcohol-free zones in Yamba to help combat drink-related crimes.

A SURGE in crime in Yamba has prompted Clarence Valley council to consider enforcing more alcohol-free zones.

The proposed extensions of the existing zones along River Street have been put to council by the NSW Police and nearby beach- side residents in the hope of reducing alcohol-related crimes in the area.

The proposed extensions would include the stretch from River Street to Coldstream Street and include Pacific Parade and Rocky Laurie Drive.

Sands resident-manager Ivor Loveridge would like to see the area fall under an alcohol-free zone but said it would need to be strictly enforced.

“There is no point having a law unless it can be enforced,” he said.

“Most decent people drink in their homes or at a club and it is only a few that cause problems for others.”

Mayor Richie Williamson said alcohol-free zones are just one of the ways council can assist the community to control alcohol-related crimes in the area.

“Recent events in Yamba have reinforced the need to respond cooperatively with the police and community groups in tackling incidents of alcohol-related crime,” he said.

Police said they take the alcohol-free zones very seriously; a person found to be ignoring the designated areas can be fined up to $55.

The proposed extended alcohol-free zones can be viewed at www.clarence.nsw.gov.au or for more information contact the council’s Environment and Open Spaces section on 6643 0205.

Council is seeking comments from the community on the proposed changes by April 6.