Derbyshire Dales District Council has introduced a Designated Public Place Order (DPPO), which will control the consumption of alcohol in specified areas in Matlock at the request of the Police.

The DPPO, which came into effect from Monday 20 August 2007, gives the Police and Police Community Support Officers the power to request any person not to drink and to confiscate alcohol in the area covered by the Order. Failure to comply with the request, without a reasonable excuse, can result in arrest and a fine of up to £500.

DPPOs have been introduced to help Police deal with the problem of drink related anti-social behaviour in public places. The order for Matlock was made following consultation with the public, Police, Matlock Town Council, Derbyshire County Council, licensed premises and owners of businesses and land within the area covered by the Order.

Councillor Lewis Rose OBE, Chairman of the Safer Derbyshire Dales Partnership, said: “I believe that the Order will prove to be a vital tool for the police when dealing with alcohol related issues in Matlock. It will not affect peaceful family picnics, only individuals whose behaviour is anti-social. The intention of the DPPO is to reduce the effect of anti-social drinking, improve the quality of life for residents in the area and keep the Matlock a safe and pleasant place to live work and visit."

The Order applies to all public places highlighted on the attached map. Signs have been erected around Matlock to indicate the designated areas.