Business in Sport and Leisure (BISL) has made representations to Blackpool Council Licensing Service over its planned Early Morning Alcohol Restriction Order (EMRO).
BISL, which represents more than 70 private sector companies and organisations, believes the introduction of the EMRO will have a negative effect for all aspects of the leisure industry in Blackpool.
It claims that the EMRO will prove disastrous for the seaside town’s economy and workforce.
At present visitors spend almost £550m annually and a high percentage of the town’s workforce is related to the tourism and leisure sector.
BISL executive director, Andy Sutch, said: “We are greatly concerned that the imposition of an EMRO in Blackpool will have a negative effect for all those involved in the leisure sector. The night time economy is vital to leisure businesses in Blackpool – pubs, clubs and the hospitality industry.
“Stag and hen parties alone bring in approximately £250,000 to the town weekly, with money going to a wide range of leisure operators. We believe that an EMRO in Blackpool will result in potential visitors choosing to enjoy their nightlife in other cities, to the detriment of Blackpool’s economy and job opportunities.
“We are urging the council to rethink this policy.”
