A PARK has been made an alcohol control zone - meaning police can order drinkers to pour their booze away or take it home.

North Kent police were given the powers on December 21 to deal with drinkers who misbehave in Dartford's Central Park, in Princes Road.

The new rules enable officers to arrest people who ignore requests to stop drinking. If convicted, they face fines of up to £500.

Last year, Dartford Council received scores of complaints from residents about anti-social behaviour in the park.

Council leader Councillor Jeremy Kite says the new measures will ensure the park remains a relaxing place for everyone.

He said: "Visitors have a right to enjoy the surroundings without being intimidated by the behaviour of a very small number who misuse alcohol.

"We have big plans to restore the park to its Edwardian splendour, complete with a bandstand, and it is essential the whole area has a family atmosphere.

"Central Park is not a place for all-day drinking binges or for showing off by stupid kids who can't handle a drink.

"We will now have the power to relieve them of their booze."

Cllr Kite added: "We've been working very closely with the police and other partners as part of the Public Safety Unit's approach to keep Dartford safe.

"These have included more regular patrols through the town by police officers and PCSOs plus greater coordination with our own enforcement teams."

Central Park now joins Dartford and Swanscombe town centres, Greenhithe High Street and the Knockhall area of Greenhithe, which all became alcohol control zones in early 2005.

The neighbourhood policing inspector for Dartford, Inspector Peter Steenhuis, said: "Our information was people were being deterred from using this public space due to the anti-social drinking which was going on there.

"We want people who work and live in Dartford to be able to enjoy the park's many attractions while feeling safe and secure.

"These new powers, which will be stringently enforced, will allow them to do just that."