A TRAFFIC ban is being trialled as part of a crackdown on booze-fuelled crime.

Trouble hotspot Above Bar will be closed to cars, taxis and buses between 10pm and 4am on Friday and Saturday nights. The three-month ban will come into force this weekend.

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Police claim violent disorder will be reduced as drunk revellers will be able to spread out instead of being forced together on small pavements.

They also say it will prevent partygoers being struck by a vehicle.

Chief Supt Matthew Greening said: “This initiative is very welcome. I have seen for myself the inevitable mix of drunken people and traffic in Above Bar and I hope this road closure will create a safer environment.

“It will also help police in their weekly task of trying to tackle those who abuse the night time entertainment.”

Councillor Royston Smith, said: “We believe this will help reduce tension and crime and keep partygoers safe.

“The Safe City Partnership is keen to try this initiative since it has worked well in other cities.”

Barriers will be put up closing Above Bar from its junction with Civic Centre Road to Commercial Road.

The Safe City Partnership is made up of the police, the city council and other public bodies and authorities and this is just one of its initiatives to reduce crime in the city centre.


Above Bar Street Road Closure Zone