A ban on street drinking is due to be implemented any day now, in a bid to tackle anti-social drinking in the town centre.

At last week’s cabinet meeting, councillors agreed the introduction of a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to restrict the consumption of alcohol and also the possession of an open container of alcohol within Romford town centre, except in licensed premises.

The PSPO will replace the current Drinks Banning Order which restricts the consumption of alcohol within the ring-road but will end next month.

The new order also expands the restricted area and will now include Romford County Court, Queen’s Hospital and the Romford Retail Park, all the way to Roneo Corner.

Cabinet member for environment and community safety Councillor Osman Dervish said: “We are pleased that we have new powers to crack down on alcohol related anti-social behaviour in Romford Town Centre.

“Last month, we ran a consultation on the proposal of this PSPO and there was an overwhelming support for the new order.

“The PSPO will help us to ensure that the borough is kept safe and is an enjoyable space for everyone.”

A consultation was launched earlier this year, asking residents whether a PSPO should be introduced in the town centre, to try and crack down on anti-social behaviour.

As well as proposing to ban street drinking, it suggested to ban buskers using amplified equipment in Romford, begging and spitting.

Controls on busking and begging were not strongly backed during the consultation, so the local authority said this aspect of the PSPO was not going to go ahead.

Anti-social drinking will instead be focussed on, where those breaking the rules could receive a Fixed Penalty Notice.

If the matter is taken to court, a fine will also be ordered.

The PSPO will not affect the possession or consumption of alcohol in clubs, pubs and bars and other places licensed to serve alcohol.

Councillor Dervish said: “The safety of residents is paramount and we need to use all powers possible to ensure this.”