Alcohol-Free Zones in Leeton and Yanco

18 Dec 2020 11:02 AM -

Leeton Shire Council is undertaking steps to renew Alcohol-Free Zones in Leeton and Yanco.

The current Alcohol-Free Zones in Leeton and Yanco expired on 31 October 2020.

Councils’ Manager Planning, Building and Health, Mr. Francois Van Der Berg, said Alcohol-Free Zones are tools under the Local Government Act 1993, section 144, to combat public drinking and to mitigate any associated criminal activity or antisocial behavior.

“Alcohol-free zones are an effective early intervention measure to prevent the escalation of irresponsible street drinking to incidents involving serious crime,” said Mr. Van Der Berg.

The reestablishment of alcohol-free zones in Leeton and Yanco was supported by Councillors at the December Ordinary Council Meeting.

Mr. Van Der Berg said Council will soon embark on a public consultation process in accordance with the Ministerial Guidelines (2009) to reestablish the Shire’s current alcohol-free zones.

“This will include publication of a notice of proposal in the local newspaper and consultation with key stakeholder groups such as the local police, liquor licensees and various other groups,” said Mr. Van Der Berg.

More information on the public consultation process will be provided by Council in early 2021.