RESIDENTS are split over news police have been granted extra powers in the town centre. 

Yesterday this newspaper revealed officers will be able to take booze from street drinkers if they think an offence is “likely to occur”.

Police already have powers to tackle alcohol-related anti-social behaviour but could previously only take action once an offence has occurred. 

These proactive powers handed down by the council have been held by police since 2017 and were renewed again on Wednesday (September 16). 

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Only eight residents commented on proposals to extend the powers in a council consultation on the plans in the spring. 

But this newspaper’s Facebook post revealing the decision sparked a wider debate about the police’s powers. 

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Residents were divided over the extension when asked if they thought it was the right move for the council to grant the powers.

One said: “Police have no authority or power outside of arrest and it MUST remain that way.”

Another resident agreed, saying: “No. Police need less authority, not more.”

However, others praised the move. 

One said it was “brilliant”, while another said it was “absolutely” the right thing to do. 

Another commented: “More authority is required to get a semblance of order and respect back in our society.”

On Twitter, John added: “This is good. Now all we need is police in the town centre.”