Görlitz imposes alcohol ban: Security on Marienplatz in focus!

Görlitz imposes alcohol ban: Security on Marienplatz in focus!

In Görlitz, a new alcohol consumption ban is a comprehensive step for more order and security in the cityscape. From next Monday, between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m. in two central squares, the Marienplatz and the place "at the Frauenkirche", no more alcohol drinks may be consumed. The city council made this decision to put a stop to the frequently encountered groups that gather for drinking. Especially in the evening there have been repeated operations by the emergency services and the police, which underlines the need for this regulation.

Mayor Octavian Ursu emphasizes that there are serious problems in the affected areas and that one now acts with a solid data basis for the ban. It is important to improve the situation sustainably. The ban is initially laid down for two years, and governments have also agreed on increased control by the regulatory office, the police and the security guard. Signs will communicate the new regulations in the blocking zones, which would like to inform the residents about the problem and the new measures.  Sächsische.de reports that this initiative for the two places was not without resistance, because the Left Party and the Motor Görlitz/Alliance Green/SPD faction expressed concerns that the problem could be shifted to other districts.

Experiences from Weißwasser: a success model?

The city of Weißwasser has gained similar experiences since May 2023. An alcohol ban zone was introduced there on the boulevard, which is checked from Monday to Friday between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. The city administration of Weißwasser was also faced with problems, especially around the new glassmaker fountain, where alcoholized groups also often shaped the picture. The measure was now even extended until April 30, 2027 to promote law and order. The chief police commissioner of Weißwasser sees this ban an important instrument to ensure security in the city. Here, too, there were some fine procedures that took place in connection with alcohol consumption.

Another aspect is the possibility that exceptions can be requested from the regulations, for example for festivals or events. This flexibility could help both in Görlitz and in Weißwasser to continue to offer local traditional events without losing sight of the safety concerns. The city administration thus ensures that the ban is not regarded as a repression, but as a targeted measure to improve the cityscape.

The discussion about the new regulations shows that the topic of alcohol consumption in public space is highly complex. The potential for distractions and resistance is great, but the cities seem to choose the right approach to offer their citizens a more livable environment. The coming months will show whether the new measures can actually bring the desired success. So it remains to be seen how the situation in the places in Görlitz will develop and whether the positive experiences from Weißwasser will also be in Görlitz. You can also find information on this on the official website of Weißwasser, which provides detailed information about the regulations, Weisswasser.de .