Newcastle CDAT Conference: Reduced Opening Hours

The news that came from the researcers who presented at the CDAT Conference in Newcastle was that restrictions and prohibitions work to reduce use of alcohol and drugs and therefore reduce the harm associated with them. Restrictions of trading hours from 5.30am to 3am and 1am lock-outs at Newcastle Hotels have produced startling results that continue to improve. The results of a trial that started 5 years showed that on average assaults in the area have declined by 33%, while for the same period 5 years ago the number of assualts have declined by 53%. The trend indicates that there is a flow-on effect with on-going reductions in violence due to intoxication. Hoteliers were concerned that these cahnges would have a damaging effect on there sales and profits. The research shows the opposite. Previously patrons would pre-load with off-site drinking and often go out to the hotels at 11 pm or later. With the restricted trading hours behaviour has changed as patrons are now tending to go out earlier and to buy the drinks at the hotel meaning profits have not declined. Not only are the streets safer, but the publicans are happy. Moreover, less Police are required to patrol the streets in the earlly hours to prevent violence, reducing costs and freeing up Police to do other more important work. So far the resutls show a WIN/WIN/WIN outcome: patrons, publicans and Police have all benefitted. Researchers believe the trial should be implemented in another areas with the expectation that the results will be the same as have been achieved in Newcastle.