Llandudno Considers Reinstating Street Drinking Ban Following Violence

Individuals consuming alcohol and using drugs have engaged in street brawls since the repeal of a by-law prohibiting alcohol. These individuals have been congregating near the town hall and Emmanuel Church in Llandudno, Conwy county. North Wales Police were summoned on Saturday, December 9, after a woman fell outside the church, her face described as a “mask of blood.” Previously, officers had responded to the same location following an altercation between two people in the street, who were reportedly kicking shop windows. Llandudno councillor Louise Emery stated she is collaborating with police to address persistent street drinking and cannabis smoking. Emery noted, “We used to have signs around the streets of Llandudno, saying ‘Don’t drink’ in public places, because there was a by-law so that you couldn’t drink on the high street.” She added, “(The by-laws) were removed before Covid. I’m going to find out why.” Emery explained, “So at the moment, there is no rule saying you can’t drink alcohol locally on the high street and around the town hall.” She concluded, “I’m going to see whether we can bring back that by-law, so at least the police would have a reason to move them on.” Conwy council confirmed its awareness of the ongoing problems. In a separate incident, another woman was observed defecating in a car park during daytime hours. North Wales Police stated its awareness of the reported instances of bad behaviour, confirming they are being “thoroughly investigated.” The police force also indicated that residents would be informed about plans designed to address the issue.