Alcohol-free zone proposals

Gosford Council officers have recommended that council retain Alcohol-Free Zones at Empire Bay, Ettalong Beach, Patonga, Pearl Beach, Umina and Woy Woy.

They have also recommended that the zones at Ettalong Beach and Patonga be extended.

A report to council stated that "community comment received has been supportive of their re-establishment and in some cases an extension of the zone was sought. "

The only "qualification" received was for an area in front of Patonga Seafoods where the shop proprietor sought an exemption for a leased outdoor dining area.

The council report stated that "this situation presents significant difficulties in policing and is discouraged under the guidelines".

An extension of the existing zone was recommended at several locations due of community representations.

This included Ettalong Beach and Patonga.

Representatives for the Ettalong Beach Club asked for an extension of zone to The Esplanade from Picnic Pde to Bangalow St and Pacific Ave.

Patonga residents asked for an extension of the zone to include Patonga Dr from the bottom of the hill near the pump-out station to the beginning of Bay St.

They also asked for an extension of the zone to include the water side of Patonga Dr adjacent to small bordering fence of children's playground

An alcohol-free zone provides the police service with the authority to confiscate alcohol from persons within the zone at its discretion.

Council agenda SF.41, October 4