Telford’s two MPs are demanding action to stop the blight of street drinking in the borough’s district centres.
David Wright, Labour MP for Telford and The Wrekin’s Tory MP Mark Pritchard are calling on Telford & Wrekin Council to take action against “drinking gangs” congregating on the borough’s streets.
Mr Wright says he has been contacted by hundreds of local residents concerned about the anti-social and “intimidating” behaviour they claim they are having to put up with when walking through centres such as Oakengates, Madeley and Dawley.
The MP says he wants to see a change in by-laws to make street drinking an offence unless a licensed premises has special permission. He also wants to see more Continental-style street cafes.
Mr Pritchard has also backed the call but warned there was no quick-fix.
He said: “Cracking down on street drinking is a welcome initative. But after so many years of neglect by the previous council, these embedded issues cannot be solved overnight.”
Mr Wright said: “Many people have spoken to me about the problem of individuals and gangs drinking alcohol at all times of the day in local centres.
“This behaviour is unacceptable and people find it intimidating. When the Tories took over the council in May of last year, they said there would be action on this problem.
“I have spoken with a large number of local residents and the Police who agree this needs tackling.”
A council spokesman said £100,000 extra a year had already been committed to help tackle drink related problems in town centres.
