Property prices in York have led to developments being proposed in some unlikely places.

However, readers may be shocked to learn that the latest idea is for a house and pub in the Guildhall!

However, residents worried about potential damage to one of York's historic properties need not be concerned - it is all part of a open day that gives you the opportunity to come along and see the work of the people who regularly write this column and put some faces to names.

City of York Council Environmental Health, Trading Standards and Licensing services will be holding their open day, entitled Safe As Houses, on Tuesday, June 15, from 10am to 8pm, in the Guildhall.

A mock house and pub will be erected inside the Guildhall to show how we and our partner organisations protect the health, safety and well being of the residents of York, and your property and the environment from crime, pollution and other hazards. We will be showing that our services are relevant to every room in your house, as well as your garden, your street and even the pub!

The open day supports the council's initiatives on York Pride and making York a safer city. The day will be an exciting mix of plays, videos, presentations, quizzes, activities and free gifts, but with the serious message of protecting your health, safety and the local environment.

Highlights of the day will include:

Anything Goes Theatre Group tackling doorstep crime at 11am and 2pm, together with advice from Trading Standards and the police.

Information from the police and fire service on home security and safety

Free advice on consumer issues, safety and hygiene in the home

Discovering the environmental issues affecting your neighbourhood and discover what's been there in the past

How to tackle problems about noisy neighbours

How to improve air quality

How to save money in your home (free light bulbs and energy advice)

Discover how safe your child's toys are

Ways to save money whilst saving the environment

Finding out what you might be drinking in the pub

The event is free and is open to everyone. This is your opportunity to meet and discover at first hand what it is Environmental Health, Trading Standards and Licensing officers do.

For further information on the open day contact Mike Southcombe on 01904 551514.

For advice on any other consumer matter contact City of York Council Trading Standards Consumer Advice on 01904 551562. You can find us at 9 St Leonard's Place, York.

The email address is trading. standards@york. gov. uk. You can also visit the website at www.york. gov.uk/

business/tradingstandards

Updated: 08:48 Thursday, June 03, 2004