Hot on the heels of being named the most entertaining in London, the buzzy and bustling borough of Camden has just introduced a rather major new rule regarding public drinking. So before you pop open the prosecco on Primrose Hill or crack open a can on the canal-side, we’d highly recommend you listening up.
In a bid to crack down on antisocial behaviour in the borough, Camden Council has just enforced some strict new rules around drinking public. And anybody in breach of those rules could be hit with a hefty fine. Following concerns raised by residents and business-owners in a public consultation earlier this year, the council has decided to introduce a new Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to the borough. This means that anybody deemed to be drinking irresponsibly in a public place could be asked to stop by the police or council enforcement officers or face an £100 fine.
Home to the likes of Regent’s Park, Camden Lock, and Primrose Hill; the north London neighbourhood is a pretty prime place for picknicing this summer. But fear not, folks. The council has not enforced an outright ban on outdoor drinking. The new PSPO (which came into effect on July 1) just means that officers have increased powers to act against those who are consuming alcohol irresponsibly in public and can order those people to stop if their behaviour is considered antisocial. Breaching the new rules could result in an £100 fine – and if not paid within 28 days, could lead to prosecution.
Councillor Adam Harrison of Camden Council said: “We’re committed to making Camden feel a safer place for everyone. This isn’t about a casual drink in the park with friends, this is about clamping down on anti-social and irresponsible drinking that we know negatively impacts residents, businesses and visitors in Camden. While many people drink responsibly in the borough, we’re listening to reports and experiences of intimidating behaviour towards other – and taking action.”
