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Abstract
We outline the emergence of policy in England in the 1970s and 1980s designed to encourage the development of local initiatives for the prevention of alcohol-related harm. Findings from a survey of local initiatives undertaken in 1995–96 are presented and discussed in relation to an earlier overview of prevention activity undertaken in the 1980s. Difficulties in mapping the extent and nature of local preventive activity are discussed. Drawing on the wider literature on community development responses to alcohol and drug problems, some suggestions are advanced for the future of local action on alcohol in the next decade. In particular, multi-component, community-based programmes with a focus on harm reduction are recommended as part of a strategic response to alcohol problems.