ADZs 'not cost-effective': councils

Two in five don't expect to recoup cost

Councils are now able to push for alcohol disorder zones (ADZs) — but two out of five authorities don't think that they are worth the money.

The order confirming ADZs on the statute books has now been laid and councils can finally start the ball rolling to implement the much-criticised measure.

Pubs would be forced to pay a levy for the cost of

alcohol-related disorder in an ADZ.

No council has yet confirmed it wants one, although a survey by the Local Government Association (LGA) found that one in three would consider an ADZ.

But the same proportion ruled them out and a similar proportion are undecided.

The survey of 182 councils showed two out of five don't expect to recoup costs incurred from implementing an ADZ.

One in four do not know what the effect of an ADZ would be — or expect it to have no effect.

LGA chairman Sir Simon Milton said many councils "remain unconvinced" of the benefits of ADZs.

"While alcohol disorder zones may seem like an attractive option, in practice they may prove to be a costly, complicated and unwieldy tool for many councils.

"Their major concern is the cost involved in preparing and implementing these zones and additional burdens involved in attempting to recover costs."

l Does your council want an ADZ? Call John Harrington on 01293 610481.

Government will monitor ADZs

Home Office minister Vernon Coaker said the Government would keep a close eye on ADZs.

He said: "We have listened carefully to the views of all our partners to ensure that ADZs complement existing powers and are used as a measure of last resort.

"In rare cases where voluntary agreements and other tactical options have not worked, local authorities must ensure ADZs are fair, equitable and effective. We will be keeping a careful watch to see that they are."