PLANS for a new "nightclub" in York city centre have been blocked, after police warned it could worsen alcohol-fuelled crime and disorder.

The owner of the Veranda Coffee House and Grill, alongside Ouse Bridge, wanted permission from City of York Council to open a dance floor and to feature bands.

Demetrious Costa Demetriou also sought the go-ahead to extend opening hours until 2.30am from Friday to Sunday, and until 12.30am for the rest of the week.

But police claimed the proposals would change the nature of the premises from a coffee house and grill into a nightclub venue.

They said it would be situated right in York's "cumulative impact zone" - an area already suffering the highest levels of violent crime and disorder, much of it alcohol related.

Licensing officer Mike Welsh said statistics showed in the eleven months up to the end of last November, there were 1,548 recorded crimes in the zone, which takes in the notorious Micklegate run - beloved of drunken stag and hen parties.

Of these crimes, 861 involved assaults and criminal, including 30 assaults on police officers. He said more than two thirds of the crimes happened between 10pm and 3am. The statistics relate to the period before the introduction of new licensing arrangements allowing later opening and drinking-up times, which have been followed by a reduction in crime and disorder in York.

PC Welsh said there was a special policy in place in the impact zone, requiring additional licensing controls. These gave a presumption against the granting of a new premises licence unless the applicant could show it would not undermine licensing objectives.

"Mr Demetriou does not offer anything to promote any of the licensing objectives other than 'taking his obligations seriously', and 'not allowing drunks entry into the premises'," he claimed.

Mr Demetriou said: "I am considering my options."

Updated: 10:13 Wednesday, February 15, 2006