PLANS to introduce an alcohol-free zone in Ringwood's town centre moved a step closer with calls for a report into the possible impact of a ban.

Last month beat officer PC Chris White called for a ban in a bid to clear up a group of vagrants who gather every day near the town centre to drink.

According to the police the vagrants themselves are harmless, but they attract other undesirables, vulnerable young people and are an eyesore to visitors.

The town council is divided about the prospect of a ban, with some councillors convinced the police already have enough power to control the problem, and others fearing the wider implications on cafes, restaurants and public events. But at a meeting of the planning, town and environment committee councillors agreed to ask New Forest District Council for advice on the possible introduction of an alcohol-free zone.

They also requested a review on anti-social behaviour in Ringwood to get an idea of the size of the problem, and information about how other towns have dealt with similar situations.

"The town council wants to know the full story so it can make an informed decision and not just a knee-jerk reaction," Ringwood Town Clerk Terry Simpson said.

"I am sure that it would solve some problems, but the council wants to know what the downside of a ban would be.

"There could be benefits, however, there are bound to be some effects that are not immediately obvious."

First published: December 22