THE PRESS is known for campaigns that raise awareness of the big issues facing our city. Today we launch another that may not be as important as stamping out poverty, but we think saving local pubs has much merit.

Which is why we are calling on City of York Council and the Government to give residents a fair say on the future of under-threat pubs by adapting our planning laws.

Presently, companies don’t have to apply for permission to convert pubs into such things as convenience stores, but we think that’s wrong – and Be Vocal For Your Local seeks to change that.

While we’re not against a failing pub being used for other purposes, our campaign is asking for a full public consultation to be made in every case to ensure that local residents are given a voice. A pub is still the hub for many communities; only by introducing the need for planning permission can the right decision be reached for all parties.

We are not alone in raising concerns. Thousands of people have already signed a petition to keep The Punch Bowl in York open, while the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) is looking to secure an “Article 4 direction” that would force planning permission before changing a pub’s use.

Last month, Wandsworth Council became the first authority to introduce such a pub protection policy. Now we want York to follow suit because these are much more than simply somewhere to drink – they are places where people meet and catch up.