An order restricting alcohol in Kidderminster town centre is to be extended with the backing of local organisations and residents.

Wyre Forest District Council Leader Councillor Marcus Hart has approved extending the existing restrictions for a further three years in a bid to tackle problems with irresponsible drinking in the town.

Local organisations and residents who took part in a recent online consultation also support the move.

Representatives from West Mercia Police, Kidderminster Town Council, ward councillors and the Police and Crime Commissioner for West Mercia were among those supporting the renewal of a Public Spaces Order first introduced in 2015.

Around 60 local residents also completed the survey with 85.9% of respondents supporting authorised officers having the power to stop people drinking when asked with a further 77.1% agreeing that officers should maintain the right to request the handing over of alcohol.

Councillor Juliet Smith, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Community Protection said: “From our ongoing work with West Mercia Police we understand the importance of tackling irresponsible drinking in Kidderminster town centre. The results of the consultation show that we also have the backing of local organisations and residents.”

Inspector Jacob Wright, West Mercia Police said: “The consultation results show a desire to keep Kidderminster town centre free from irresponsible drinking. I remain committed to work alongside the local authority to ensure that we maximise the opportunities for intervention and enforcement where evidence exists that individuals are breaching the Public Spaces Protection Order.”