The introduction of six alcohol-free zones in Oxford will not move street drinkers to the edge of the city, according to the city councillor responsible for law and order.

Alcohol-free zones currently cover much of the city centre and parts of Cowley and Blackbird Leys.

Under the new proposals, bans would also come into force in Speedwell Street, Broad Street, Frideswide Square, St Aldate's and surrounding tow paths, Walton Street, more areas of Blackbird Leys, and Cowley Road, from Union Street to The Plain.

If councillors agree, the scheme could be in place by the end of September.

Susan Brown, executive member for crime and community safety, said the original order had taken the problem off the streets, as many drinkers were able to consume alcohol at Oxford Night Shelter.

She believed the council was capable of dealing with people who 'moved on' to alternative drinking sites.

Ms Brown said: "What we've done quite successfully is remove some of the 'best spots' and have therefore managed to reduce street drinking in Oxford."

She said the alcohol-free zones had also helped curb late-night violence, as the police had powers to confiscate glasses and bottles.

But Dr Mike Woodin, city councillor for Carfax ward, said: "We need to be tackling the root cause of the problem and offering detox."