CHANGES to York's drinking laws have seen crime plummet and noise nuisance soar, according to a report to go before councillors next week.

City of York Council has carried out a study to assess the impact of the introduction of new licensing laws, which came into force in November, 2005.

The report, written by Richard Haswell, the council's head of licensing, states that from November, 2005, to November, 2006, there was 32 per cent less drink-related disorder within the Bar Walls than the previous year, and five per cent less criminal damage.

In the central Cumulative Impact Zone, the reductions were 38 per cent and 12 per cent, respectively.

But public perception of the changes reveals significant unrest, largely linked to late-night disturbance.

In a questionnaire to residents, only ten of 54 respondents said the changes had had a positive impact on their lifestyle, and 19 said they had had a negative impact. Others were neutral, or were unaware of the reforms.

Much of the dissatisfaction related to antisocial behaviour noise nuisance, which greatly increased following the introduction of the Licensing Act.

Mr Haswell wrote: "The implementation of the Act has had a negative impact on residents living near some licensed premises due to noise nuisance and extended operating hours. The Environmental Protection Unit report that noise complaints have risen dramatically since the introduction of the Act."

As reported in The Press last month, noise complaints to the council doubled after the new laws were introduced.

From January 1 to November 29 last year, there were 2,028 complaints, up from 1,079 in the same period in 2005.

The report was also positive on street cleanliness. Conditions on several licences call for litter-picks at closing time.

It also said productive partnerships had been developed between the council and other bodies, such as North Yorkshire Police.

The York Taxi Association and the York Private Hire Association also both supported the changes. Cabbies reported reduced waiting times due to the staggered opening hours, and a drop in drink-related problems.

The licensing committee will consider the report on February 2. They have been advised to make no changes to the council's licensing policy; to note the issues raised about noise and antisocial behaviour; and to refer the report to the planning committee.

York's licensed premises

There are 834 premises licences in force in York, broken down as follows:Cafes 22
Clubs 13
Educational establishments 7
Hotels 69
Mobile units 6
Nightclubs 4
Off licences 153
Other 61
Private members clubs 67
Public houses 197
Restaurants 119
Sports clubs 5
Takeaways 68
Theatres and cinemas 8
Village/community hall 35
* The licensing authority also licences 1084 persons to sell alcohol through personal licences.