ZONES have been set up in three new areas of Suffolk Coastal from today to help police deal with problems caused by people drinking in the streets.

ZONES have been set up in three new areas of Suffolk Coastal from today to help police deal with problems caused by people drinking in the streets.

Signs have been erected to mark out the areas in Wickham Market, Saxmundham and Kelsale-cum-Carlton, as well as changes to areas in Felixstowe.

Council cabinet member Sherrie Green said the aim was to give the police more powers to tackle those drinking in public and acting anti-socially.

“The town and parish councils of these areas recognised the need to create these designated zones, which mean that in those areas the police can deal with anyone misbehaving or acting in an anti-social manner while drinking alcohol and seize any in their possession,” she said.

“We have already introduced similar restrictions in Felixstowe, Leiston, Woodbridge, Framlingham, Kesgrave, Martlesham and Rushmere St Andrew and they have helped the police improve the quality of life for those who live there.

“As well as the introduction of three new orders, the changes to the ones in Felixstowe that were made after listening to the public, the town council and the police have also come into effect.”

In designated areas police can order someone whose behaviour is deemed to be anti-social to stop drinking the alcohol in their possession and hand over the drink.

If they fail to comply, the can be arrested - with a potential fine of up to £500.

“A substantial proportion of crime and disorder is linked to alcohol abuse and these orders will give the police additional powers to tackle the minority who act in an anti-social manner after having too much to drink,” said Mrs Green.

Do you think the no drink zones are a good idea? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail EveningStarLetters@eveningstar.co.uk