The polycarbonate glasses are being made available through a crime prevention initiative from Eastbourne Police and the Eastbourne Business Crime Group. It is hoped licensed premises around the town will start using them to reduce the number of inj uries received from violent assaults, criminal damage and minor injuries.
Eastbourne Police chief Dick Coates said, "Customers and staff are less likely to be injured in a glassing incident.
"Venues should see a reduction in the number of personal injury and accident injury claims submitted.
"This type of glassware provides the opportunity to save lives and prevent serious injury. There is also a reduced risk of bar staff obtaining an injury from broken glass.
"Staff may suffer cuts from glasses when serving, cleaning, carrying or washing. Bar staff no longer have to pick up and clear away broken glass."
Chief Inspector Coates added, "Working in partnership with licensed premises is key to this initiative working to reduce public place violence and make Eastbourne safer.
"The usage of the polycarbonate glasses is a first class example of prevention being better then cure.
"I am determined to make the area safer and allow everyone to enjoy a peaceful and relaxed night out without fear of thugs."
Patricia Pybous, Business Crime Reduction manager, said, "The crime group fully supports this latest initiative.
"It has been made possible with funding from Eastbourne Crime Reduction Partnership. The group has members both from the day and night time economies who will see the benefits of licensees using poly-carbonate glasses."
Councillor Margaret Bannister, the cabinet member for housing, health and community services, said, "It is essential that the police, council and operators of Eastbourne's licensed premises work together in partnership to ensure venues are well managed.
"It is about the town promoting a vibrant economy while also seeking to ensure that people remain safe and secure while out.
"Eastbourne continues to be a fantastic place to work, visit and live and we want to keep it that way."
Licensed premises interested in stocking the poly-carbonate glasses can contact Trish Pybous on 415411.
annemarie.field@trbeckett.co.uk