The Brussels City Council has approved a four-year extension of the ban on consuming alcohol in public areas across parts of the city centre, saying the measure remains necessary to tackle alcohol-related disorder and improve public safety.

The restriction, first introduced in 2019 and previously renewed on an annual basis, does not apply to bars, cafés or restaurants operating within the designated zone. City authorities said the extension was adopted after police reports and complaints from residents indicated that public drunkenness, drug use and anti-social behaviour continue to affect several central districts.

Ban remains in force around the clock

The ban covers the pedestrian zone and a large section of central Brussels, including the areas around Rogier, Yser and Sainte-Catherine metro stations, as well as Rue Dansaert, Nouveau Marché aux Grains, Rue du Houblon, Rue de la Clé, Rue Léon Lepage and the Quays district.

The restriction applies 24 hours a day.

However, the rules do not apply to restaurant terraces authorised by the city or during commercial, cultural, festive or sporting events officially approved by the municipal authorities.

Anyone found violating the ban may face an administrative fine of up to 500 euros, while repeat offenders risk higher penalties. Alcohol may also be confiscated by police.

Authorities cite public order concerns

Brussels Mayor Philippe Close said the alcohol ban is only one element of a broader strategy to reduce public nuisance and improve safety, stressing that the city is also combining enforcement with social assistance measures for vulnerable people.

During the council debate, some opposition members argued that the measure should be accompanied by stronger social support policies, while the city maintained that extending the ban was justified by the continued disturbances reported in the affected areas.(ILKHA)