Car ban on 'booze alley'

Wellington Street, dubbed ‘Booze Alley’ because of its large number of pubs, bars and clubs, attracts thousands of weekend fun-seekers.

But motorists frequently have to dodge revellers who spill from the pavements onto the road as they walk to bars.

Chief Supt Andy Brooke says traffic and drinkers do not mix. Barriers will be erected on both sides of Wellington Street on weekend nights.

“There have been problems with people somewhat the worse for drink bumping into vehicles and drivers getting very frustrated. The decision to temporarily halt traffic when Wellington Street is at its busiest fits with Operation Binge to reduce violent and alcohol-related crime.”