Major Crackdown on Street Drinking in Gloucester City Center

A significant crackdown on street drinking in Gloucester city center has demonstrated notable success, resulting in the confiscation of over 560 cans and bottles of alcohol from 64 individuals over a span of two months.

Dubbed “Operation Ebrius,” the initiative involved collaborative efforts between Gloucester City Council, Gloucestershire Constabulary, Solace, and City Protection Officers to address street drinking in the area from August to September. The operation involved engagement with a total of 64 individuals and led to the seizure of alcohol with an estimated value of £1,300. Despite offering general support, the more frequent street drinkers declined assistance.

Of the 64 individuals engaged, 18 were addressed once with no further incidents, while 21 others were engaged between two and five times. Notably, three injunctions were obtained against street drinkers during the operation.

Emily Bolland, the community engagement officer for Gloucester City Council, highlighted the success of Operation Ebrius during a presentation to the overview and scrutiny committee on November 27. She emphasized that the enforcement-focused approach had a rapid and significant impact on the safety of the city center, with many residents expressing an increased sense of security within a week. Bolland also disclosed plans to establish a team of “hotspot” officers to operate across the city following the success of their Street Aware and Operation Ebrius initiatives.

Furthermore, a survey is underway to gather public feedback and concerns related to safety in Gloucester, with an interactive map available for residents to share their experiences and viewpoints on public spaces throughout the city.

In the event of criminal activity, individuals are encouraged to report incidents to Gloucestershire Constabulary.