Moree Plains Shire Council proposed, in September 2008 that the alcohol free zones be re-established for a further three years.

These zones are emplaced to reduce the incidence of alcohol related crime, to reduce the amount of alcohol related litter and to provide a safe environment for users of local streets in the areas bordering on, joining or across from licensed premises.

The council has received a submission from police to maintain the existing alcohol-free zones as they currently are.

Therefore the council staff have begun the process of reinstating the existing zones and over the next few months there will be community consultation and advertising for the proposed zones.

Project and development manager Lila Fisher (pictured) said the council received two phone calls last year from members of the public requesting an extension to the current alcohol free zone but there was no further names provided or follow up letter received.

“For this reason council will be proceeding with renewing the current alcohol free zones in Moree, Mungindi and Boggabilla,” Ms Fisher said, “although the council are looking at extending the zones around Moree,” she added.

Applications for an alcohol free zone can be filled out by a representative of a community group active in the area, a police officer or a person who lives and works in the area.

If the council receives more than one application referring to the same roads, footpaths or public car parks, they may be joined in a single alcohol free zone proposal.

To make a submission to the council for an alcohol free zone contact road safety officer, and lead officer on this project, Kylie Kerr on 6757 3222.