Central London: the problems

The problem: noise and obstruction caused by illegal buskers and henna tattooists. Unlicensed tables and chairs frequently block pedestrian areas. Atmosphere of "fear and intimidation" caused by drunken revellers spilling out of bars.

The solution: license buskers in controlled area. Obtain injunction banning tattooists from the square.

Improve 24-hour council warden service to help police deal with troublemakers. Use of mobile urinals. Closer scrutiny of pub licences. Use new legislation to remove street drinkers and rough sleepers. Zero tolerance of "minor" problems such as litter and broken windows. Improve quality of outlets by encouraging businesses to improve their merchandise and service.

Covent Garden

The problem: drunken revellers urinating in the streets. Complaints from businesses about flyposting and graffiti. A persistent problem of busking and illegal street trading.

The solution: two "telescopic

urinals", which can be lowered into the ground, to be introduced next month in Villiers Street and Cambridge Circus. Council officers to take rapid action to remove graffiti.

Licensing of buskers in controlled area.

Soho

The problem: streets littered with food wrappers and cans. Greatest concentration of crime and drug dealing in the West End. Men - and women - urinating on the street.

The solution: a campaign was launched in July requiring businesses to put out rubbish at set times for speedy collection. Reduction in closing times for latenight cafes. Two street-washing machines have been introduced. There will be new street cleaning contracts by September 2003.