Moree Plains Shire residents are being asked to have their say on a proposal to re-establish existing alcohol-free zones in Moree, Boggabilla and Mungindi for the next four years.
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Alcohol-free zones were originally established in the three townships by Moree Plains Shire Council in 2012, to improve public safety and prevent disorderly behaviour caused by the consumption of alcohol in a public place.
The alcohol-free zones, which council says helped address anti-social behaviour and alcohol-related crime in the communities, expired in May this year.
"Since 2012 there has been a constant decline in alcohol-related crime within the identified zones," council's director of planning and community development, Angus Witherby said.
"Introducing alcohol-free zones has proven to be an effective tool in assisting the police to improve public safety."
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Mr Witherby said council now proposes to re-establish the alcohol-free zones for a period of four years, until July 2024.
"To continue to see alcohol related incidents decline in our communities, the NSW Police has provided a recommendation to council to re-establish the current zones and council, as required under the guidelines, is advertising the proposal for public comment," he said.
Mr Witherby particularly encouraged groups with knowledge of alcohol related issues within the community to put forward their views.
The alcohol-free zones are generally located within 300 metres of outlets supplying alcohol in Boggabilla and Mungindi and within 500 metres in Moree.
The proposal to re-establish alcohol-free zones in Moree, Boggabilla and Mungindi is now on public exhibition and will remain open for comment until 5pm, Saturday July 25.
Full details of the zones, including crime statistics throughout the period the zones were operational, can be found in the proposal, which is available to view on council's website at www.mpsc.nsw.gov.au/index.php/hot-topics/docman/news-and-topics/1598-proposal-re-establishing-alcohol-free-zones/file.
Alternatively, a hard copy can be provided on request.
Feedback and comments can be submitted in writing to: The General Manager, Moree Plains Shire Council, PO Box 420, Moree NSW 2400. Comments can also be submitted by email to council@mpsc.nsw.gov.au.