This weekend will be the last time you can drink alcohol in Woolwich town centre as a new order banning public boozing will come into effect next week.

As part of a push to tackle anti-social behaviour and street drinking, Greenwich Council has obtained a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO).

From Monday, July 11, anyone caught with an open alcoholic drink will have to surrender it on request.

The PSPO also means patrolling officers have the right to test open liquids to check whether they contain alcohol.

Anyone who does not comply with a requests to surrender open containers of alcohol can be ordered to leave the area for up to 48 hours.

They may also face a hefty fine of up to £1,000.

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Cllr Jackie Smith, cabinet member for community safety and environment, said: “We are strongly bolstering our efforts in eradicating street drinking and anti-social behaviour in Woolwich while ensuring that those who need help for substance abuse are given as much support as possible.

"We have carried out surveys and consultation with residents and local businesses on the subject of street drinking in Woolwich; an overwhelming 86% of respondents supported the introduction of a ban on drinking alcohol."

Acting borough police commander Joseph McDonald added that the police will be working with the council to crack down on street drinking, particularly in family-friendly areas such as General Gordon Square.

He said: "Through partnership working and taking a pro-active approach to tackling this sort of issue, we will effect meaningful, behavioural change and really turn the corner in tackling street drinking.”