A Public Spaces Protection Order which bans drinking alcohol in public is now in place across the whole of Slough.
Cabinet approved the PSPO on 17 June. It came into force on Friday (5 July) and it will last for three years.
Under the order, it is an offence to consume alcohol in public or be in possession of an opened container that is reasonably believed to contain alcohol. It does not apply to drinking alcohol within licensed premises.
Refusing to stop drinking alcohol or hand over any containers (sealed or unsealed) which are believed to contain alcohol, when required to do so by a police officer or authorised officer, is also an offence.
Cllr Ishrat Shah, lead member for equalities, public health and public protection, said: “The aim is to tackle ongoing issues of anti-social behaviour affecting the local community. People can still enjoy a drink in a pub or restaurant, but this prevents alcohol being consumed in public areas and which can potentially lead to nuisance and anti-social behaviour.
“The council and the police receive regular complaints around alcohol consumption in streets and parks and we hope this will help deter people as they could risk a fine.”
Anyone caught breaching the order is liable for a £100 fixed penalty notice (FPN), issued by the police or council. They could also risk going to court if they fail to pay it.
A statutory public consultation was carried out for four weeks earlier this year, where there were 267 responses in favour and 20 against the order.