Blenheim bars implement one-way door policy
A voluntary move by Blenheim bar owners to implement a one-way door policy is an extremely positive and responsible move
say Police.
Police Marlborough Area Prevention Manager Senior Sergeant Peter Payne said Police and the council's licensing inspector
have been working with licensees on strategies to reduce alcohol-fuelled offending in the Blenheim CBD.
"As a result of our discussions a two of the three licence holders who remain open after 1am have agreed to implement a
voluntary one-way door policy from 1am."
Senior Sergeant Payne said the policy meant that from 1am no further patrons would be allowed to enter the bars, however
any patrons already inside an establishment would be free to remain until closing time.
The one-way door policy will be implemented during September allowing a period for educating patrons about the change.
It will be fully operational from October 2013.
Senior Sergeant Payne said Police were delighted with the bar owners' agreement to the policy.
"This is a crime prevention initiative that has been used successfully in other parts of the world and we hope will have
a positive effect in reducing the number of violent incidents around Blenheim. What is most encouraging for Police is to
see those other agencies and business operators being prepared to do their bit to contribute to this prevention
strategy."
Senior Sergeant Payne said he would be speaking with other licence holders in the coming weeks to encourage them to
follow the example being set by these licensees.
end