AN award-winning public park has been included in plans for alcohol restriction zones.

Ripon Spa Gardens, famous for its flowers and recently awarded the national Green Flag for excellence, is part of a central zone being proposed to reduce anti-social behaviour linked with alcohol abuse.

It has been included in the main zone after suffering vandalism and problems with under-age drinking.

If the zones in Ripon win final approval, it would not lead to a total ban on drinking in the areas - but it would give police more powers to curb drinking and confiscate alcohol.

The plan has won the unanimous backing of Harrogate Borough Council's licensing committee.

Other areas covered by the central zone include Market Place, Queen Street, Finkle Street, Old Market Place, Fishergate, Westgate, part of North Street, Duck Hill, Kirkgate, part of Minster Road, Park Street Church Lane and part of Bedern Bank.

The other zone would cover an area around Ripon Community Leisure Centre and Camp Close open space.

Detailed copies of the plan can be viewed at the Department of Community Services, Harrogate Borough Council, Springfield House, King's Road, Harrogate, during office hours.

People have until August 12 to support or oppose the schemes.