Local authorities are set to be given the power to impose a blanket ban on the sale of alcohol after 3am in areas affected by anti-social behaviour and public disorder.

Licensing minister Gerry Sutcliffe said that the measures would be brought in as part of the Crime and Security Bill currently before Parliament, having been initially announced by Prime Minister Gordon Brown in September 2009. The proposed banning order would be enforced between 3am and 6am and will apply to all shops, bars and clubs that sell alcohol in a particular area. The ban could also be imposed on a particular day or all week.

However, local authorities will have to show that any decision to use the powers is based on a need to cut down on crime and disorder, or to improve public safety. Sutcliffe said: "The Licensing Act has done a great deal to make it easier for local residents and councils to deal with alcohol-related nuisance and disorder, and the number of 24 hour licences remains low.

"But we recognise that some concerns still exist about anti social behaviour, and are determined to give councils the powers they need to act. This new power will help local authorities and the police make life better for local residents."