RETAILERS told council bosses they were not just worried about parking - they also had concerns over a range of issues including crime, begging and drug addiction.

The report to the economic development and community safety scrutiny board said retailers felt crime and violence were an area of concern, particularly in terms of the negative impression that fear of crime could create.

"People begging for money are also mentioned by many of the retailers," said the report.

"Drug addicts are also mentioned regularly."

The report says opinions are quite divided about late-night opening, with some retailers enthusiastic about its potential, given time, effort and effective co-ordination, while others are more sceptical.

Some said they would like longer pedestrian hours, particularly during school holidays, and many larger firms would like a full-time, high-profile city centre manager who would co-ordinate events and initiatives to maximise impact.

"Many retailers are in favour of having a larger retailer (such as John Lewis) in York, but recognise that given the size of the units available, this won't happen unless further retail space is also made available."

The report said officers from the economic development unit and board members had held meetings with retailers from streets including The Shambles, Gillygate, Micklegate and Coney Street as well as the chambers to discuss their views on the strengths and weaknesses of York as a shopping venue.

It said it was anticipated that the meetings would be completed by the end of March, by when a large amount of data would be available.

Board members are urged to consider the best way forward to facilitate further discussion and decisions.

Updated: 10:33 Monday, March 15, 2004