Alcohol-free zone extended

The alcohol-free zone on Patonga Drive, Patonga, is to be extended to include both the general store and the fish and chip shop, after recent recommendations to Gosford Council.

The purpose of the extension was to reduce levels of alleged anti-social behavior.

The owner of the general store submitted a petition totalling 170 signatures opposing the alcohol ban, but it failed to change the council's decision.

Reasons for those opposing the ban included major change in lifestyle to the residents of Patonga, disagreement with reported problems in the area as a result of alcohol consumption on the footpath, and claims that the majority of residents of Patonga were not in favour of the ban.

Council officers reported to council that police were in favour of the ban covering the total area and had confirmed their reports of anti-social behavior in the area.

The report also stated that claims of conflict of interest against a council officer regarding the matter had been internally investigated and found to be groundless.

It had been claimed that a council officer who recommended the zoning was married to the police officer who also recommended the zoning.

The next review on the matter was to take place in December 2001.

Council agenda WK.039, July 3