A TAXI rank in central York has been allowed to keep operating around the clock despite complaints from nearby residents and businesses about noise, fights and litter.

Coun Dave Merrett, City of York Council’s cabinet member for transport, planning and sustainability, has approved the Duncombe Place rank remaining a 24-hour operation after the authority looked at whether its hours should be reduced.

People living and working nearby had complained about antisocial behaviour which they claimed was linked to the rank being open at all times.

But the council’s transport bosses said there was no way of preventing taxis picking up fares if it closed earlier.

They said there was nowhere to relocate it to, and other city-centre ranks could not be expanded.

The authority has agreed to move the front of the rank closer to Museum Street, which it said would improve CCTV coverage, and remove a shelter which is a “potential focus for rowdy activity”.