Amsterdam to expand ban against drinking booze on the street

Amsterdam is expanding its ban against drinking alcohol on the streets of the city center. From Wednesday you are not allowed to drink alcohol around the Albert Heijn behind the Royal Palace and on the streets around the Leidseplein, Het Parool reports.

An alcohol ban is already in place for the Leidseplein itself.

The alcohol ban behind Dam Square was lifted a few years ago. "It went well there for a long time", a spokesperson for the district Centrum said to the newspaper. "But lat year there were signs of structural and severe alcohol problems." Problems mostly involved noise complaints, public urination, pollution, lingering and violence.

In front of the Albert Heijn is a large staircase that overlooks the Royal Palace. According to the newspaper, it's a popular spot to sit down and have a drink.

The district will evaluate the measure early next year. Then a decision will be made on whether to extend the ban or terminate it.