MIDDLESBROUGH's mayor is to share his vision for the future of the town with leaders of the licensing trade.
Ray Mallon will tell his audience of licensees and brewery chiefs today that while he wants a vibrant town centre - round-the-clock opening hours bring responsibility.
He said: "We want to hear from the trade, we want their input. What we are saying is the relaxation of licensing laws offers the business world a great opportunity, but with that opportunity comes responsibility.
"Middlesbrough is open for business but we want to ensure it is the right type of business in the right location so the whole of the town benefits.
"We welcome this opportunity to boost the prosperity of the town but we want to ensure it is not accompanied by an increase in crime or anti-social behaviour.''
His audience will include Cleveland Chief Constable Sean Price
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