POLICE have said extra security measures must be installed at the entrance to a proposed city-centre development in York, to keep street-drinkers out.

LaSalle Ltd, which owns the Coppergate Centre, revealed plans to turn the Banana Warehouse building and the neighbouring computer and furniture stores on Piccadilly into two new shops and 37 flats last month. The company also confirmed a wider redevelopment of the Castle Piccadilly area had been abandoned.

If approved by City of York Council, the warehouse frontage will be retained, but the rest of the site covered by LaSalle’s planning application will be demolished and rebuilt. The developers have said the scheme will help York meet housing needs and regenerate the area, seen as one of the most run-down parts of the city.

In its representation to council planners, North Yorkshire Police has raised concerns about the site’s communal garden area becoming “a focal point” for street-drinkers unless controlled access to the flats – involving electronic locks and entry phones – is included.

The force said the site’s tunnel entrance could also cause crime and antisocial behaviour problems.

In June, The Press reported how police had been given new powers to order people to leave the nearby Stonebow, Colliergate and St Saviourgate area, following problems linked to street-drinking.

However, they said the development’s design had many “positive” crime prevention measures and it would “enliven what is currently a poor environment”.

An influx of more residents and workers into the area could help reduce crime.

“The tunnel entrance has the potential to generate crime and antisocial behaviour, such as noise, litter, use as a toilet area by revellers making their way out of town and graffiti damage,” said the force’s statement.

“It will also provide an ideal shelter in inclement weather, making it possible for those who might engage in antisocial behaviour to congregate there.

“There is already evidence of discarded beer cans on the site and criminal damage to glazing, despite CCTV and warning signs being displayed.”