Media Release from City of York Council Labour Group

Blossom Street retained in monitoring zone
21 June 2010
Licensing committee members on the council voted to retain Blossom Street within what is known as the city's Cumulative Impact Zone (CIZ) at a meeting on Friday.

A CIZ involves the monitoring of an area containing a significant number of licensed premises, particularly where there is evidence of alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour. And Micklegate councillor Dave Merrett today argued for Blossom Street's continued inclusion in the zone due to ongoing incidents that have an impact on residents living in Blossom Street and nearby streets.

He said:

"I'm pleased that committee members agreed with me that Blossom Street should be retained, because the impact of licensed premises on that street has led to a continuing level of crime and particularly anti-social behaviour that is of concern to residents.

"In 2008, there were 8 assaults and 30 cases of anti-social behaviour reported. In 2009 these figures had increased to 12 and 33 respectively. The level may not be as high as further into the city centre, but the level is still not acceptable to local residents and we have to bear that in mind.

"One also needs to bear in mind that not all instances of crime and anti-social behaviour get reported. Given the representations of local residents, I felt this was necessary and am glad it was unanimously agreed".