[Margaret Pilkington]

Yes, G....I know it will make a difference to the people who need a sit down during their shopping trips, but I think the kind of difference they(HBC) are looking for, is to make it harder for the drinkers....or more uncomfortable for them.....so that they will be forced to look for somewhere else.
I suppose the peace Garden up Church Street would take them away from the main shopping area.......and if they went there, I would think HBC would see the removal of the benches as something of a success.

It is unlawful to be drinking alcohol in that area. The simplest way to prevent that is to ensure the area is policed, the law upheld, and those who are drinking alcohol are carted away.