A bid to beat binge drinking in Gloucester has been given funding to install water coolers into bars and clubs, with the aim of reducing drunken crimes and anti-social behaviour.
Gloucester is making a bid to the Department for Communities and Local Government “alcohol fund” for two grants of £45,000 over two years.
It comes after Butlers bar, in Eastgate Street, reported violent incidents had fallen by 78 per cent since November when a water cooler was installed.
Owner Justin Hudson said: “With the water cooler, I must admit I wasn’t sure anyone would use it, but I’ve been astounded by the difference that it’s made.”
The bid is being submitted to the city council.
Leader Paul James (Con, Longlevens) said: “Anything which can help to improve the night-time environment and reduce disorder is to be welcomed, and if it has been successful at Butler’s then it makes sense to extend it.”
Robert Kingston, co-ordinator of the Street Pastor scheme, which puts volunteers on the streets to keep an eye on revellers, said: “Water is something we give out to people because we know dehydration can affect the way people behave, and anything which replaces glass has got to be good for safety.”
Water coolers are extremely helpful in providing free, vital hydration and the success of the experiment in Butler’s bar has proven just how useful water coolers can be. The Water Cooler Company hopes that more bars adopt this strategy of installing water coolers as an alternative to alcoholic beverages, in an effort to beat the challenge of binge drinking. Our company offers customers a stylish range of water coolers that would compliment any bar, office or home.
