Police had reported an increase in public disorder and aggression at last year's event. The council report outlining the pending decision states "police dealt with serious assaults regularly over the night. There were reports of groups of men taking advantage of vulnerable females. They also reported that vulnerable men were knocked to the ground."
While it would be a shame to lose the event, people's safety does come first.
Of course, we have to be realistic. It's New Year's Eve. People, especially young people, are wont to drink more than they can handle and some will probably cause trouble whether there is an organised location for it or not. It is highly likely, though, there would be fewer serious assaults if the event was dropped.
The council's city transformation manager has recommended holding a youth event at Baypark instead. This seems like a good idea, as it would be far easier to police. The location would mean the aftermath would probably be far less troublesome, too, as attendees would disperse, most likely by car, rather than spill into the surrounding areas and disturb residents.
If the beach celebrations are scrapped, I hope the council do hold another event.
Young people should have a place to learn the ritual that is New Year's Eve disappointment in safety.
