MP calls for Roxy Leisure to be banned from opening bowling and ping pong bar in York - claiming city needs to be more 'family-friendly'

Roxy Leisure had applied for a new bar where games like bowling, ping pong and even ‘crazy pool’ are played last month.

But according to Rachael Maskell MP, the area Roxy Leisure wants Roxy Booze and Ball Games to be placed, The Stonebow, is unsuitable.

Ms Maskell said: “York must stop granting licences to the owners of venues that are not in the interests of residents and the city, but instead build a family-friendly city that everyone can enjoy.

“Now that we have a new administration, I am hopeful that the values of the Labour Council for good jobs, putting residents first and taking a public health approach to all policies will kick this application into the long grass.

“Many very vulnerable residents live in this area, and will be directly impacted by the venue.

“They have shared their fears with me, and even the thought of this venue arriving is causing much stress in the community.

“This area of York is increasingly becoming a residential and community area of York, with more housing planned at Hungate.

“It is disgraceful that Roxy Leisure Ltd has failed to engage with the community and has not conducted risk assessments for the impact that their venue will have on these communities.

“I am writing to Roxy Leisure Ltd to request a meeting.

“I want to put it to them that there has been no thought as to the impact that the venue will have on local residents, community groups or on bus users.

“This type of venue is simply not wanted in York, and I hope the Council sends Roxy Leisure Ltd packing.”

After submitting their application Roxy Leisure’s commercial manager, Joel Mitchell, told the York Press: “York is a vibrant city, with a diverse range of hospitality and leisure businesses.

“The licensing application is the final step for us to hopefully open a gaming hall for the city and bring our unique range of competitive socialising games.”

Roxy opened its first site in Leeds in 2013 and now has two Ball Rooms and one Lanes bar in the city centre, as well as a venue in Sheffield.