COUNCILLORS and police chiefs are hoping Padiham town centre will become a safer place, thanks to plans to turn the town centre into an alcohol-controlled zone.

Under the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001, police now have the power to take action against anybody caught drinking in town centre streets.

Anybody who fails to comply with the scheme could be arrested and fined up to £500.

The scheme already operates successfully in other East Lancashire towns, including Blackburn, Hyndburn, Rossendale, and Clitheroe.

A scheme covering Burnley town centre was introduced earlier this year.

The move aims to cut down on the number of glass-related injuries, improve the environment by ensuring streets are clear of broken glass and reduce the intimidating effect of people drinking in the street outside pubs.

Former Mayor of Padiham Coun Granville Lord said the scheme would be a welcome move for the town.

He added: "Anything that can help people enjoy a night out in the town feeling safer has got to be good news.

"This is something I would wholeheartedly welcome."

Sgt Andrew Carter, of Padiham Police, said: "After the scheme was introduced in Burnley it would seem like a natural step to bring it in to force in Padiham. Now we have had a chance to look at the Burnley scheme this is something we will be looking at and work is under way."

Signs stating 'This is an Outdoor Alcohol Control Zone' will be erected to clearly identify the area where the legislation applies.

Police and councillors are in discussion about setting up the scheme and a council working group is set to meet for the first time later this month to start work on a timetable for introducing the measures.