A big day today with a debate on WCC's Draft Alcohol Policy.
The most contentious issue will be the licensing hours. These are proposed to run until 3am for most bars with some allowed to trade until 5am in the entertainment precinct, if they can exhibit best practice.
The policy will be going out for consultation soon so do have a say if you have a view on this important issue.
What business is it of yours if little old 41 year old me wants to buy a bottle of wine on the way home from work at 9.15?
ReplyDeleteNone.
Note that I am generally on your team with regard to better public transport and more facilities for cycling, etc, but I can't bring myself to vote for a politican who goes out of their way to prevent ordinary people, i.e people who drink responsibly but who happen to work and shop late, from going about their ordinary business.
I understand that you mean well, but think about who you are annoying when you vote for to criminalize purchasing a bottle of wine at 9.15. Don't think about the teenager you've prevented from throwing up on Courtenay Place, think about the middle class dinner you purposely spoiled. And then think about the votes you lost.
Thanks for the comment and for your support of better public transport and more facilities for cycling.
ReplyDeleteAs I'm sure you will know, the Government has made it the business of councils under the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 to look at amongst other things, licencing hours.
The move yesterday (from me) was to go out to consultation on off licences closing at 9pm throughout the city instead of the 11pm closing (the maximum set by the Act).
I have no strong view on this issue and may change my mind after consultation but thought it important to put on the table. It is only a restriction of 2 hours and I note that the 11pm closing is a maximum, not necessarily the desired closing time. Yes, it will mean people will need to be a little more organised but needs to be offset by the benefits of making it harder for people to pre-load before going into town.
Finally, I would encourage you to make a submission and come along to Counncil to share your views.