AN alcohol exclusion zone could be set up in an area of York city centre which is plagued by antisocial drinkers.

People will be banned from drinking in the street and causing a nuisance to residents and businesses.

Anyone caught breaking the rules could face a fine of up to £500 and a criminal record.

The zone would cover the Exhibition Square and Bootham area of the city, where gangs of drunks have been gathering.

It follows the success of outdoor booze bans which have been set up in the Walmgate and Museum Gardens areas.

York council's acting licensing manager, John Lacy, said: "The council has powers to delegate areas where the police will have increased powers in relation to the control of street drinkers.

"The Bootham area has a history of nuisance behaviour associated with the consumption of alcohol on the streets causing annoyance, distress and disruption to members of the public especially tourists, businesses and attractions."

Shops and restaurants complained about drinkers hanging about near telephone boxes in Exhibition Square, deterring their customers.

Empty wine bottles and cans have been left in the area, and people have complained about vandalism and antisocial behaviour.

"The problem is mainly in the summer and not so bad now the cold weather is here - but we need to sort it out by next spring," said Mr Lacy. An order can be imposed under the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001, which makes it an offence to drink alcohol in that area.

Police can confiscate booze and containers and drinkers are warned to move on - but if they refuse they can face court action and a fine.

The proposed order would cover Exhibition Square, King's Manor Gardens, Manor Lane, the City Art Gallery, St Leonard's Place, St Leonard's car park, Bootham Row, Bootham Row car par, and areas of Bootham.

It is being sought by the Safer York Partnership, which is funding the project, City of York Council and city centre police officer Paul Hopson. People are being asked to submit their views on the proposed booze ban to the council before January.

Updated: 09:57 Thursday, December 01, 2005