Pub regulation scheme in Ipswich up for award

A scheme in Ipswich to encourage the self-regulation of pubs in the town has been nominated for a national award.

Ipswich's Best Bar None scheme, which started in September, has been shortlisted as one of the most "innovative" schemes in the country.

The scheme was set up to reward licensed premises for good practice and crime prevention.

The winner of the national Best Bar None "Most Innovative Scheme" award is announced on 24 November.

The Ipswich scheme, started by the borough Council, Suffolk Constabulary and business group Ipswich Central, has been chosen as one of four finalists for the award.

'Great success'

There are around 100 Best Bar None schemes in operation across the UK and Ipswich's rivals for the award are all well-established - Doncaster, Plymouth and Ceredigion.

Within a day of the Ipswich scheme being set up 15% of bars in the town had joined it. Now 29% of pubs are signed up to the scheme.

Councillor Nadia Cenci, Ipswich council's community safety portfolio-holder, said: "Best Bar None Ipswich has quickly got off the ground and is proving a great success.

"This partnership working will help us make a difference to the town centre, making it safer for residents and visitors."