News release

Council praise for pilot project

West Lothian Council is praising the initial results of a pilot project to ban alcohol sales to youngsters under 21.

The six-week project was carried out in the Armadale area to cut down on antisocial behaviour problems.

" The initial results of the pilot project are most encouraging," said Council Leader Peter Johnston. ? The police have still to finalise the statistics, but the early indications reveal a significant drop in alcohol-related problems in the area.

" We now need to take some time to assess the full details. We plan to hold discussions with the police, the licensed trade and other interested parties.

" No decisions have been taken yet, but we will be considering the possibility of extending the scheme based on the results of the success of the pilot project.?

Councillor Johnston added: " I would like to thank licensees in the Armadale area for the way they co-operated with this partnership project.

" We do recognise this is only one tool we can use in tackling alcohol-related problems among young people. West Lothian Council is looking to develop a range of activities for young people, including free swimming on Friday afternoons."

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date: 02-05-2008