Stop Alcohol Fuelled Anti-Social Behaviour in Ely's Parks

The public will soon be asked whether they would support measures to stop alcohol fuelled anti social behaviour spoiling the public’s enjoyment of the beautiful parks of Ely.

East Cambridgeshire District Council is proposing an order to restrict the consumption of alcohol that causes nuisance, annoyance or disorder at Cathedral Green, Cross Green, St Mary’s Green and Cherry Hill in Ely

If approved the order would not prevent sociable drinking such as by friends and families gathering in the park for picnics or events, but aims to tackle those who make life unpleasant for others.

Cllr Peter Cresswell, Chairman of the Community Services Committee, said: "Earlier this year we introduced an order restricting the consumption of alcohol in Jubilee Gardens to prevent anti social drinking becoming a major problem. Over the summer, many people have told us how much of a difference the order made – allowing the public to enjoy the warm summer evenings in peace.

“We are now looking at a new order for Cathedral Green, Cross Green, St Mary’s Green and Cherry Hill in Ely, where again a small minority of people are causing problems for others. It is really important to stress that if approved this will not stop anyone from drinking alcohol in the park if they are socialising with friends or having a family picnic. This order is to stop the consumption of alcohol when it creates the potential for disorder or causes an annoyance to others.

“We want our parks to be places you can enjoy - they should not be ruined by a minority who are intent on behaving in an anti-social way.”

Photo:nedrichards