An alcohol ban on St Kilda foreshore has been extended again by Port Phillip Council, despite some councillors arguing it was robbing people of their civil liberties and a "kneejerk response" to a complex issue.

This aerial shot shows the extent of the mess on the St Kilda foreshore left after Christmas Day. Credit:Joe Armao

The ban will be in force until April 3 (the day after Easter Monday), while the council gathers more evidence on the impact of alcohol on tourism and health in the municipality.

The decision comes after police and fed-up local traders lobbied the council for a permanent alcohol ban in a bid to end anti-social behaviour plaguing the area.

More than 20 people voiced their concerns for and against the proposed bans at a marathon, three-hour Port Phillip council meeting, with Mayor Benadene Voss casting the deciding vote to extend the ban.