POLICE want to extend a city-centre zone aimed at tackling alcohol-fuelled crime and trouble, which could make it tougher for more new city-centre supermarkets to open.

North Yorkshire Police wants to widen the city’s Cumulative Impact Zone (CIZ), which gives the force more powers to oppose plans for new licensed premises and applications for longer opening hours, to include the Back Swinegate area.

Officers said violent crime, criminal damage, theft and drink-related anti-social behaviour had increased in this area over the last two years.

The force has also asked for the CIZ to cover High Ousegate, Peter Lane and the section of Spurriergate not already included, and also want Fossgate and Goodramgate to be considered because of the number of new licensed premises opening or planned for those streets.

Supermarkets and off-licences could also come under the new zone.

Police said there were “growing concerns” about the number of new city-centre convenience stores and crime issues linked to them.

A report by City of York Council officials which will go before the council’s gambling, licensing and regulatory committee later this month supported the Back Swinegate, Spurriergate and off-licence proposals but said there was not enough evidence to include Fossgate and Goodramgate. The committee will be asked to agree formal consultation on the policing plans.