DRINKING in the street is to be banned in a York village, to help crack down on antisocial behaviour.

A council order issued today forbids the consumption alcohol in streets and outdoor areas in Strensall.

The order, which is currently subject to public consultation, has been passed following widespread complaints from local people about rowdiness.

More than 80 people attended a public meeting last autumn, to discuss antisocial behaviour in the village, with many feeling that the problems were down to under-age drinking.

The proposed order means police can ask anyone not to consume alcohol in the streets, and to confiscate any drink that is being consumed. Anyone failing to comply with these restrictions will be committing an offence, and can be fined up to £500.

Local councillor Madeleine Kirk, who chaired last autumn's meeting, said: "The meeting last September made it clear that much of the nuisance and disorder experienced by local residents was associated with drinking, and so, after agreement with the parish council, I asked city council officers to start the process of enforcing restrictions on alcohol consumption in Strensall.

"The police have also gathered evidence to determine the cause of the problem.

"Obviously this doesn't affect people drinking in their own homes, pubs or other licensed premises in Strensall.

"It simply restricts drinking on the streets and in open spaces in order to tackle nuisance and disorder, and make local residents feel safer."

Peter Jesse, chairman of Strensall Parish Council, said: "We've been battling against youths drinking on the streets for years and the police have been doing their best all along.

"When they do find youths with cans and bottles they get rid of it, but this will give them an extra power to their elbow.

The locations where alcohol bans are in force

* Copmanthorpe

* Exhibition Square, near Minster

* Walmgate

* The Museum Gardens

* The Balfour Street play area, in Leeman Road

"We are pleased that this is finally being put into place. We understand that it has been quite successful in Copmanthorpe and we hope we will follow in their footsteps."

John Lacy, pictured, City of York Council's licensing manager, said: "We are responding to concerns from councillors, police and residents regarding drink-related anti-social behaviour and disorder in the village."

A copy of the plan showing the places where drinking would be banned can be viewed at the reception at 9 St Leonard's Place, York, between 9am and 5pm on weekdays.

Any representations as to whether or not the order should be made can be sent in writing to Andy Hudson, assistant director (neighbourhoods and community safety), at the same address, to arrive no later than February 29.