New software is being used by a London borough to help crackdown on binge drinking in the capital.
The digital tool is being used by the London Borough of Islington to map data on alcohol-related crime and health problems against existing on and off-licensed premises.
The council then uses this data, such as hospital submissions and ambulance call-outs, to assess all licencing applications.
Cllr Teresa O’Neill, executive member for health at London Councils said: ‘While alcohol is a part of London’s vibrant night-time economy, we cannot underestimate the damage it does to families and communities, when abused.
’Drinking too much can have a devastating effect on health, contributing to cancer, hypertension, heart disease, liver disease, mental illness and death. It can lead to domestic and sexual violence and abuse, and costs the NHS millions in treatment.
’Islington’s approach shows how technology, data and good partnership working can be used in an effective way to tackle alcohol-related harm.’
So far, the software has led to the council rejecting 13 alcohol licensing applications and two amended to reduce the hours of sale.