PEOPLE in Salisbury are to be consulted on whether new food and drink premises in the city centre should be subject to stricter rules to balance a good mix of venues with an enjoyable night out.

Residents and businesses are being invited by Wiltshire Council to take part in a survey asking for their views on whether the heart of the city should become a Cumulative Impact Area (CIA).

Within a CIA Wiltshire Council can operate specific licensing policies designed to keep crime, litter and noise to a minimum, particularly where there are a high volume of premises.

In such a CIA any new or varied licences, if agreed, would be subject to limitations, unless the applicant can demonstrate there would be no negative cumulative impact on the area.

CIAs are already in place in Bristol, Bath and Southampton. Subject to consultation and agreement by councillors, a CIA in Salisbury could be in place by Christmas 2014.

The consultation comes as the city celebrates retaining Purple Flag status for a second year. To achieve the accreditation cities have to demonstrate they provide a vibrant, safe and enjoyable place for a night out.

A number of agencies, businesses and the voluntary sector worked in partnership to continue improving what the city can offer in the evening to achieve the accolade.

Keith Humphries, Wiltshire Council’s cabinet member for public protection, said: “Salisbury is a beautiful place for an evening out and we’re very proud to have achieved Purple Flag status for a second year.

“Designating the centre a CIA is another tool we can use to ensure the balance between an exciting mix of places to eat and drink and an enjoyable night out is achieved.”

Maggie Rae, the council’s corporate director, added: “We’re keen to hear if local people feel these measures will help Salisbury retain its charming character while providing an excellent night out. The CIA is part of a suite of options that Wiltshire Council will consider using where appropriate, to ensure Salisbury remains a safe place.”

The consultation will run until Sunday, April 20. To take part go to wiltshire.gov.uk/salisbury-cia-2014-survey.htm.

Paper copies of the survey are also available from Wiltshire Council offices, Milford Street, Salisbury.