Permanent alcohol ban proposed for Riccarton/ Ilam

The Christchurch City Council is proposing a permanent ban on drinking in public places around the Riccarton/Ilam area. A temporary ban is in place in the area until 30 November 2011.

The amendment to the 2009 Alcohol Restrictions in Public Places Bylaw will help address increased violence and disorder resulting from the transfer of people from central city hospitality zones to the Riccarton and Ilam areas since the 22 February 2011 earthquake.

The Council also asked staff to report back on temporarily extending the scope of the existing ban in Papanui and imposing a temporary ban in Merivale.

Staff have also been asked to report on a permanent ban on drinking in public places at Okains Bay every New Year’s Eve.

Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker says the Council seeks a commonsense approach to the way drinking behaviour has changed since the earthquake.

“Our intention is to address existing issues and provide the Police with appropriate tools to help maintain community wellbeing in a balanced way.”

The Riccarton/ Ilam bylaw proposal will go out for public consultation in early July. Staff will report to Council on the Okains Bay option in July and the Merivale/ Papanui option in August.