THERE is a reason why York is where it is. It was built at the joining of two rivers, the Ouse and the Foss.

For centuries, these two waterways were at the heart of city life. The Romans, the Vikings, the Victorians - all knew the importance of water-born transport. They depended on it for industry, commerce, even the basic necessities of human life.

The visible legacy is still there, in the shape of the Bonding Warehouse and the luxury flats converted out of what was once Emperor's Wharf.

Until even comparatively recently, goods were brought into the city by boat.

For years, this newspaper has been arguing that we should do more to open up the Ouse and make more use of the Foss.

The balcony running behind City Screen was a start. But what about regular water taxis? Or a riverside walkway running between Ouse and Lendal bridges?

Those may be some way off. But a waterfront café on King's Staith would certainly do for starters.

Plonkers Wine Bar and The Lowther pub have teamed up to seek planning permission for exactly that.

There will no doubt be those who claim a riverside café would be a health and safety risk. Any hazards would need to be satisfactorily resolved.

But the tables outside the King's Arms are hugely popular. We can see no reason why a waterfront café nearby should not be too.

This city is crying out for a more Continental feel. Yet the council has slapped a curfew on city centre pavement cafés, claiming the tables get in the way of pedestrians. No such excuses down by the river. Planners should show a little imagination and allow this scheme to go ahead. It is just what York needs.