I READ with some alarm the proposals for three more city-centre pubs.

York already has alcohol-related problems – to the extent that most York residents do not feel it is safe or enjoyable to be in the town centre on Friday or Saturday nights.

Three additional licenses will exacerbate antisocial behaviour and the intimidation often felt by people in the street.

Many residents do not want the city further spoiled by the apparent absence of a coherent strategy for addressing the problems caused by alcohol-fuelled hen and stag parties and other groups of people who are incapable of walking on their own shoes or of behaving appropriately.

It is time to reconsider the image the city wants to project. There is a danger the disorder on an average weekend night will put tourism at risk.

Given that the problems often begin during the afternoon, there are issues for the family friendly nature of the city and for the future of York as a retail destination.

This means that other York businesses will be damaged.

The proposals are likely to exacerbate alcohol-related problems and encourage further growth in ‘alcohol tourism’. I urge residents to make their concerns known to City of York Council before it is too late.

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