More than 400 people were arrested and three venues licences revoked in the town centre over 18 months, a report says.

This comes with Bolton Council set to vote on plans for a “late night levy”, to charge bars, nightclubs and takeaways to help pay for policing and clean ups.

A report about the policy has revealed the scale of anti-social behaviour in the town centre that prompted the idea, with a total of 429 arrests over 18 months between 2022 and 2024.

Bolton Council cabinet member for regulatory services Cllr Sue Haworth said: “Everyone has the right to feel and stay safe on a night out.

“The levy would raise vital revenue to fund the ongoing activities of both the police and council to support the night-time economy.

Bolton Council is set to vote on the proposalBolton Council is set to vote on the proposal (Image: Newsquest)

“This would mean reducing or preventing late night alcohol‐related crime, disorder, and nuisance, and improve public safety.

“We want Bolton town centre to be a more welcoming and a safer night out for all and I would encourage members to support this initiative.”

The report to the council’s licencing committee said that of the 429 arrests, the most common alleged offence was in connection with drunk and disorderly behaviour

This was followed by 118 arrests in connection with assault and 32 in connection with public order and affray offences.

The same report found there had been 380 police stop searches carried out, 48 dispersal notices issues and six premises licence reviews, with three licences revoked.

The policing response in the town centre for this period cost around £300,000.  

The report said: “Although the operations have been successful in reducing some crime, they have also highlighted reoccurring problems in relation to violence, including violence against women and girls, persons being drunk and disorderly, assaults on the police, and the supply of drugs and drug taking.

“All a significant impact on limited resources and the reputation of Bolton.”

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Plans for the late-night levy have been under consideration for some time, with a consultation having been launched in December last year.

The charge, set by the government with larger establishments paying more, will apply to venues licensed to sell alcohol or late-night refreshments in the town centre between 3am and 6am.

The money made will be used by the police and the council to tackle crime, antisocial behaviour, and litter.

Bolton Council is expected to decide whether to adopt the levy at a town hall meeting on Wednesday October 9.