TRADERS who called upon councillors to ban drinking in public places are disappointed that their request is set to be refused.

Sean Cosgrave, speaking for Rossendale traders and shopkeepers, who got together a petition, said: "Tonight's policy and resources committee is being recommended to take no action, but I think regional by-laws will be superceded by a national decision."

This is the fourth time this same issue has been debated by councillors. The last time - in October last year - police said they already had sufficient powers to deal with the problem.

Council officers will recommend tonight's committee to reaffirm the council's previous decision to take no action.

It also recommends informing the police of the council's concern about the problems associated with the consumption of alcohol and requests that all possible steps to alleviate the problem be taken.

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