SOUTH Norfolk Council has agreed to consultations over plans to create an alcohol-controlled zone in Diss.The initiative, spearheaded by the town council in conjunction with Norfolk police and South Norfolk Crime Reduction Partnership, aims to curb anti-social drinking in public areas.

SOUTH Norfolk Council has agreed to consultations over plans to create an alcohol-controlled zone in Diss.

The initiative, spearheaded by the town council in conjunction with Norfolk police and South Norfolk Crime Reduction Partnership, aims to curb anti-social drinking in public areas.

If approved it would give police powers to request that individuals stop drinking within the proposed zone, which would cover the town centre, the Mere and park, Fair Green, Diss High School the Tesco and Morrisons sites, the bus station, St Mary's Church and the health centre.

The order would also allow officers to confiscate alcohol. The aims include reducing drunkenness and alcohol-related disturbance in public places and reducing the numbers of street drinkers and “hotspot areas”.

South Norfolk Council's cabinet on Monday approved plans for consultations on the proposals. Letters will now be sent to local residents asking for their opinions.

The comments received will form part of the key data when the formal application is presented in October for the cabinet's approval.

Similar plans for an alcohol- controlled zone at Wymondham are due to be submitted this year.