Regular Thursday late-night shopping is coming to the city thanks to plans announced today by City of York Council, the Chamber of Commerce and First Stop York Tourism Partnership. The proposal is already supported by well over 30 retailers. This number is expected to increase significantly over the next few weeks. Key 'names' such as M&S, Bhs, Boots, WH Smiths, Woolworths and Allders have already made their clear commitment.

The chamber and the council took the lead in December by getting together to consider options and since then, work has been taking place to secure participation from retailers and to identify and address operational issues that might arise.

Brian Littlejohn, manager at Marks & Spencer, said: "This will definitely go ahead. There is growing support from across the city centre and the number of retailers who have signed up is growing daily. The commitment from the council and the chamber is very important - not least the council's decision to open up at least one of the multi-storey car parks. This is a real opportunity to bring more activity back into the city centre in the evening, to the benefit of all retailers. It is an excellent example of businesses and the council working together"

The intention is to launch the late-opening at Easter (April, 17, 2003), with shops to open every Thursday evening until 8.00 pm. In addition to opening one of the multi-storey car parks, the council is due to have discussions with First York regarding Park & Ride and normal bus services. Temporary traffic orders are being drawn up to extend pedestrian hours in the city centre on Thursday evenings (on similar lines to those which operate at Christmas).

Councillor Bob Scrase, the council's executive member for community, economic development, and commercial services, said: "City of York Council has been looking for opportunities to boost the evening economy and strengthen the marketing of the city and is delighted to be working with the retailers and the chamber on this scheme.

"It is likely to be attractive to both residents and visitors, and we aim to promote the scheme to bring much needed additional business into the city centre. We hope that attractions and bars, cafes and restaurants will also join so that we are able to offer a very special evening experience."

Discussions are taking place with the tourism industry, through the First Stop York tourism partnership, to promote the scheme to visitors. Opportunities for evening entertainment and markets are being explored. The intention is to have a broad-based 'offer' that can be promoted to attract residents and visitors alike.

Diana Dickson, chair of the retail committee, chamber of commerce, said: "We hope that most city centre retailers and businesses will want to join in this important initiative for the city, but we are mindful that it might raise some operational issues which we are keen to address. Over the next few days we will therefore be writing to retailers and other city centre businesses asking them to confirm their commitment to be involved and identify any operational issues that might arise. We also want to hear of any ideas that they might have as to make the scheme successful."

Further detailed planning will take place over the next few weeks and further information will be announced including details of shops involved and parking/traffic arrangements.