ALCOHOL control zones have finally come into force in Maidstone - almost five months after they were first announced.

Anti-social behaviour caused by drinkers on the streets of the county town can now be targeted specifically by police officers who have the power to seize alcohol.

A Mid Kent Police spokesman said alcohol had already been taken from three people, including one in Week Street.

The scheme which covers Maidstone town centre, Snowdon Parade in Vinters Park, Mote Park, Northumberland Court and Cumberland Green, both in Shepway, Barming recreation ground, and the shopping parade and sports ground in Park Wood, was first announced last September.

The zones were due to be in place by mid-November but a mix-up with the wording on signs, which are a legal requirement in the areas, caused a delay.

However, appropriate signs have now been put up in the area to warn people drinking alcohol that should they act in an anti-social manner, the alcohol will be confiscated.

Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant Ian Jones said: “These powers mean that Maidstone town centre will be free of individuals drinking in the streets and acting in an anti-social way. Seizures of alcohol have already been made by officers and there will be more if and when it is necessary.”

When the zones were formally approved by Maidstone Borough Council last year they were said to be aimed at protecting Maidstone’s “cafe culture” while stamping out rowdy behaviour.

It was originally hoped they would be used as an a important tool for the festive party season.

Under the scheme alcohol is not banned completely and people are still able to drink at tables outside licensed premises.

Instead, the zones are intended to discourage groups of people who gather in public places with drinks and cause a nuisance.