Shops get ADZ charge let-off

Many shops and off-licences could be exempt from charges in an alcohol disorder zone (ADZ).

All licensed venues that shut on or before the time councils believe problems start will pay nothing if an ADZ is declared, under the latest plan for the controversial scheme.

Local authorities would decide the cut-off time, known as the "service commencement point", but it is likely to be around 9pm.

This means few pubs would benefit, but off-trade premises could adjust their closing times to avoid charges.

The Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) negotiated the "100% discount" in a meeting with the Home Office.

The WSTA's parliamentary and policy executive Alex Tottenham said: "The alcohol disorder zone is for a place where there's alcohol related crime and disorder.

"If shops aren't open at the actual time when this happens they shouldn't have to pay into it."

Federation of Licensed Victuallers Associations chief executive Tony Payne said: "It seems unfair that someone who could have supplied the alcohol could get away not paying.

"I think that rather than talking about exemptions for certain places, we should work together with councils and police so we don't need one."

Last year the Home Office revealed that ADZs could cost the trade £6.2m.

It reckoned that around 30 councils would start the process of implementing an ADZ but only six of the schemes would materialise.

The Home Office is currently compiling draft regulations for ADZs and these are expected to be put to public consultation next spring.

The regulations will pass through Parliament next summer, with October as the implementation date.