EVEN more pubs and clubs in York are preparing to make a range of alterations to their buildings, before the smoking ban comes into force this summer.

The ban on lighting up in public places becomes law across England on July 1, giving licensed premises less than three months to adapt.

Several York watering holes have already sought permission to build shelters and applications are now coming in thick and fast - including another for a roof-top smoking refuge.

BPM, in Rougier Street, is hoping to erect a covered shelter on an existing rear flat roof.

The design is U-shaped and will include seating for smokers who want to rest their legs while having a cigarette. It will be accessible from the first floor of BPM and externally the applicants have said it will look similar to a traditional shed and will not be visible either from Rougier Street or Tanner Row. Roof terrace planters will help soften the shelter, although there will be no landscaping.

BPM is owned by McMillan York Ltd, which also owns the Nexus night spot, and managing director Russ Brown has said he does not want to make smokers feel like lepers who would be forced to leave the premises if they want a cigarette.

Plans for a roof-top garden at Nexus, which will cost between £20,000 and £40,000, have already been approved by City of York Council planners.

Three York pubs have also applied to erect shelters outside their premises.

The Fox Inn, in Holgate Road, has applied for a single-storey covered shelter at the side of the building which would overlook the beer garden.

The Ainsty, in Boroughbridge Road, wants permission for a fixed canopy incorporating heating and lighting next to its existing patio at the front of the building.

But an environment and conservation consultation has recommended the application be refused because of the potential nuisance and loss of amenity to residents regards smoke and noise.

However, it does say the problems could be addressed by moving the shelter further from neighbours.

The Windmill pub, in Blossom Street, York, has applied for a timber pergola at the rear of the building.