The Local Government Scotland Act 1973 gave councils powers to pass bye-laws about drinking outside.
Lothian and Borders Police and their partner agencies have announced that a byelaw prohibiting the antisocial consumption of alcohol will be enforced on Portobello beach this summer. Officers from Portobello’s Safer Neighbourhood Team and representatives from The City of Edinburgh Council have been working closely together to identify and tackle drink related antisocial behaviour through Operation Drifter. The implementation of the byelaw, as part of the Local Government (Scotland) Act, gives police the power to stop the public consuming alcohol within an enforcement area and arrest anyone who refuses. Chief Inspector Tony Beveridge said: ” During a recent bank holiday weekend we estimated that several thousand people had made their way to Portobello Beach and it was apparent to our officers that some were drinking very heavily. “During that weekend we dealt with many complaints of antisocial and threatening behaviour most of which were drink-related. “Whilst we are delighted to welcome people to Edinburgh who wish to enjoy themselves, it is important that they respect the rights of others to do the same. “We are keen to assure the public that those who obey the law while enjoying an alcoholic drink will not be targeted. However the implementation of the byelaw should send a clear message that criminal behaviour linked to alcohol will not be tolerated.” Jim Hunter, East Neighbourhood Manager said: “The ongoing improvements we are making in Portobello are to give residents and visitors a clean, welcoming and attractive place and we support efforts to ensure a minority of people do not spoil it for others.”
