LOCAL residents have been reacting after the government’s idea to limit outdoor smoking locations was leaked in the press.

According to a report in The Sun newspaper, Whitehall documents show ministers wishing to extend the indoor smoking ban to beer gardens, outside stadia and outdoor areas of restaurants.

The ban could also apply to outside areas of universities, hospitals, sports grounds, small parks, and children’s play areas.

These potential changes could come as part of prime minister Keir Starmer’s stricter Tobacco and Vapes Bill.

The news has polarised the thoughts of local residents, with some supporting it from a public health perspective as it would discourage smoking more and may improve the al fresco dining experience for customers who hate the smell of smoke.

Others oppose the plans, saying that they violate a smoker’s right to smoke and could damage business as smoking customers would be less inclined to visit pubs, perhaps favouring their own gardens instead.

Local resident Clare Harmison fears that the ban on smoking will ‘kill the pub trade’.

“I don't like smoking but if it's outside it's fine. A ban will kill the pub trade.

“Surely there are much more important things they can be pushing through right now rather than this?"

Her thoughts were echoed by Barbara Mitchell who questioned what the future would be for Devonshire Street in the city centre following the works after the ban.

“They've just spent all that money on Devonshire Street to make a nice sitting area to drink and have a smoke if they so wish,” said Barbara.

“I don't smoke but it's another reason trade will be hit.”

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Some readers suggested that bars should be able to opt out of the ban should they so wish and that all premises should have the choice on the future of outside smoking.

Smoking inside at pubs and public places was banned in 2006 and has been blamed for the decline of the pub industry.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer told reporters on Thursday that the Government will “take decisions” on smoking, and “more details will be revealed”.