New research in alcohol-related problems in health and public disorder

Dr Iain Brennan was involved in a successful bid to the National Institute for Health Research to explore the effect of alcohol outlet density on health and criminal justice outcomes in Wales. The study, led by Prof David Fone at Cardiff University will bring together expertise in town planning and public health to determine the effect of alcohol availability on health problems associated with acute and chronic alcohol use.

It will also explore the relationship between alcohol availability and criminal justice outcomes such as violent victimisation and the use of dispersal orders and fixed penalties for alcohol-related disorder. Past international research has identified a threshold of pub density above which alcohol-related harm greatly increases. However, no such studies have been undertaken in the UK. 

The study could have important implications for the allocation of licenses to sell alcohol, healthier town planning and the provision of alcohol support services. Furthermore, estimating outlet density is a complex issue as we purchase and consume alcohol in three-dimensional and networked spaces. Therefore, the study will identify optimal techniques for estimating outlet density, enhancing understanding of the relationship between health and place.