Lambeth controlled drinking zone

On the 1 December 2009 a controlled drinking zone (CDZ) comes into effect across all public spaces in the London borough of Lambeth.

A controlled drinking zone (CDZ) is a designated public area in which police have powers to confiscate alcohol or require a person to stop drinking. However a CDZ is not a ban and does not make drinking alcohol in public an offence.

Controlled drinking zones (CDZs) are intended as a way of dealing with alcohol-related anti-social behaviour. These powers were introduced following evidence of alcohol-related disorder and significant public support.

Police powers

All police officers (including Community Support Officers) have the power to require a person within the CDZ not to drink alcohol in that place or to surrender any alcohol or alcohol containers (closed or open) in their possession. Failure to comply with an officer's request could result in arrest and/or a fine.

Although police can use the powers in public places whether a person is causing problems or not, the powers are intended to target anti-social drinking so they should only be used when someone is causing or likely to cause anti-social behaviour.

Police are entitled to dispose of surrendered alcohol in any way they consider appropriate. No paperwork or notices are required to use the powers.

Complaints

If you feel CDZ powers have been used unfairly, you can make a representation to the Drug and Alcohol Team who will be reviewing the order. Please provide clear details of any incident you feel was unfair and stating your reasons why you feel so by calling 020 7926 1000.

Public place

For the purposes of the CDZ a "public place" is any place to which the public have access, whether by payment or otherwise with "express or implied permission". Relevant public spaces could include streets, parks and open spaces. However private land such as a supermarket car park could be considered a public space by implied permission.

Legislation

Section 12 of the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001 provides the police and local authority with the powers to set up 'Designated Public Places Orders' (DPPOs), but local authorities typically use more self-explanatory terms such as 'controlled drinking zones' or 'alcohol control areas'. These all refer to the same powers and there is no legislation that bans drinking in public places.

Additional measures

Lambeth is committed to reducing alcohol-related crime and disorder but also recognises that many people require help or support with a range of issues. The council and its partners fund a range of treatment and support services for individuals in need of help with alcohol or other problems.

If you would like help or advice regarding alcohol or local services please call DRINKLINE free on 0800 917 8282.