Current temporary alcohol bans in Papanui and Merivale extended for a further 6 months

Christchurch City Council has extended the current temporary alcohol bans in Papanui and Merivale for a further 6 months while it investigates a permanent ban on drinking in public places for both areas.

“Council brought in the temporary alcohol bans in August 2011 after an increase in alcohol related problems in Merivale and Papanui following the closure of bars and clubs in the Central City. The response to the temporary bans has been positive with the police and members of the community saying that the bans have made a real difference,” says Council Programme Manager Alan Bywater.

The Council has asked staff to investigate bylaw changes to create permanent Alcohol Ban Areas for the Papanui and Merivale areas and to report back in April this year. If the Council decides to proceed further; the public will have a chance to comment on these proposals in May or June.

The Temporary Alcohol Ban Areas in Papanui and Merivale place a prohibition on drinking in public places from 6pm to 6am on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

The alcohol bans for Papanui and Merivale came into effect on 8 September, 2011 and will now continue to be in place until 9 August, 2012.

The primary role of the Temporary Alcohol Ban Areas is to act as a deterrent to drinking alcohol in public places that are under the control of the Council and open to the public. The ban does not apply to privately-owned places.