Scheme to stop booze-fuelled crime in Doncaster

DONCASTER has been selected as one of 20 areas in the UK to take part in a project to combat drink-fuelled crime.

The Government scheme seeks to tackle the harmful effects of excessive drinking through the new Local Alcohol Action Areas (LAAAs).

Alcohol-related crime and disorder costs an estimated £11 billion per year in England and Wales and the Government wants to support local communities in reducing the scenes of drunkenness and violence that blight communities, particularly at night.

Each action area will receive support and expertise from the Home Office, the Department of Health and Public Health England and Public Health Wales.

Crime Prevention Minister Norman Baker said: “We have already given local areas the power to restrict the sale of alcohol in the early hours and ensure those who profit from a late night licence help pay towards the costs of policing.

“The LAA project I am launching today is another measure designed to tackle the problems caused by excessive alcohol use.

“In addition I am pressing the industry itself to take more responsibility for the problems that inappropriate use of their products cause.'”

The areas will see local agencies, including licensing authorities, health bodies and the police, work in partnership with businesses and other organisations to address the problems caused by alcohol.