YORK'S new city centre manager has vowed to crack down on the city's street problems - including drug addicts and beggars.

New manager Paul Barrett has promised to bring in new measures to clean up the streets and tackle crime hotspots.

His moves have the backing of City of York Council leader Steve Galloway, who said the new measures could include the introduction of street wardens and improved surveillance.

Mr Barrett spoke out after complaints to the Evening Press about rife drug dealing.

"It's reaching such a point that you can't walk around without being asked for something, tripping over someone or seeing illegal activities at the street corner," said Mr Barrett.

"Drugs are typical. We have had complaints from people wanting to go about their business, for example on St Saviourgate, waiting for a taxi or using the phone, who have been intimidated away by these people."

Councillor Galloway said: "We are very conscious the city centre is what most people see of York, not just the visitors but people who live and work in the city, and we are determined to improve it.

"Drugs are an issue we are working on, and it is a priority to underpin our efforts with more resources. That may mean better surveillance or it might be another application to the government for street wardens."

Mr Barrett has held the role of city centre manager for two weeks, and said his plans included closer than ever co-operation with the police.

"We will be giving every help and assistance to tackle it, we are looking at everything we can do within existing law, and if we need to, looking at bringing something in to tackle these problems."

Coun Galloway said work had already begun to tackle York's homeless problem, with street people being given the chance to re-enter society with the council's help.

He said: "The city centre manager will have my full support and it fits in with our city pride campaign. For those who continue to be a nuisance to average citizens, enforcement action is something we will propose the police to take."

PC Howard Smelt-Webb, manager of the Guildhall ward, said: "We will be working very closely with the council and a number of agencies to look at all these problems."

Updated: 10:32 Monday, September 01, 2003