COUNCILLORS are set to approve plans to seek the creation of bylaws to stop people drinking alcohol in public in six towns.
Galashiels town centre, Hawick, Jedburgh, Newtown St Boswells, Eyemouth and Coldingham could have the legislation imposed, if approved by the Scottish Government.
A report due to go before councillors this morning, Thursday, states that the response to the public consultation on the proposed bylaws was “disappointing”.
However it recommends the individual bylaws are now drafted in consultation with the Scottish Government, following which there will be another period of consultation.
Proposed exemptions include principal festival days and Hogmanay.
Responses to the consultation were received from only four of the 67 community councils, although many were represented at area forum meetings where the matter was discussed.
Despite public concerns about ‘excessive drinking’ in the Cobby and Mayfield areas of Kelso, the community council’s response of being “dead against” a byelaw has meant it has not been included in the list.
NHS Borders and the Scottish Ambulance Service support the introduction of the bylaws and Police Scotland believe they will help reduce disorder.