Skydome 'safe zone' to be set up to stop drugs and weapons

[dutchman]

A “safe zone” could be set up at the Skydome to stop drugs and weapons being taken into some of Coventry’s busiest nightspots.



The move could see people entering the concourse through an area manned by police and door staff who will check IDs, search bags and even carry out breath tests.

The scheme could have been put in place as early as last night, although police said the move hadn’t yet been rubber-stamped.

The idea was suggested by Kevin McCloskey, who runs Carters Sports Bar and Grill at the Skydome.

The venue was temporarily shut in March after an incident on concourse.

An application from the police to remove their licence was unanimously thrown out. however, and now Mr McCloskey is keen to do all he can to make the area a safe and enjoyable place to visit.

“We’re working hard to improve security,” he said.

“We want to see the town and the nightlife buzzing and we’re putting all our weight behind the efforts.

“At the moment people are going to Birmingham or saving up and spending the weekend in London.

“They’re not partying in their home town and we need to do all we can to try and reverse that.

“All of the venues in the city have big names and many are running drinks promotions in the summer.”

The suggested scheme comes four months after teenager Daniel Kirkwood was stabbed to death outside Society nightclub in Tower Street.

Five men are currently in custody charged with his murder.

Society has since been shut after police successfully applied to have their licence revoked.

Officers currently carry out high profile patrols of the city centre as part of current police efforts to make the city safe.

Police say the tactic, dubbed Operation Cocktail, has been successful.

But Mr McCloskey believes the resources put into that initiative could be better used elsewhere.

He says the safe zone could help bring people back to the city centre at night, as well as improve the relationship with police, licensees and venue staff.

A spokesman for West Midlands Police said that, although an increased police presence is planned for this evening, the safe zone plan has not yet been approved by them.

The spokesman added that the scheme was being led by licensees.

[rebbonk]

And anyone caught with weapon or drugs must face the courts. No excuses!

[dutchman]

I don't see how this can work as I sometimes use the concourse as a shortcut between Spon Street and Croft Road when out shopping and I certainly am not going to submit to a body search!