York Dungeon plans security fence to tackle drug use

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 12 Oct, 16:31 · Archive

York Dungeon is installing a 3-metre anti-climb fence to address increased drug use in its shared rear yard.

York Dungeon's operator Merlin Entertainments has applied to install a 3-metre-high anti-climb fence and gates in the yard behind its Clifford Street building. The attraction shares the yard with Circuit Nightclub and Secret Bar. According to the application to York Council, the yard has been attracting vagrants, drug users and assaults, with loitering creating a fire safety risk by blocking the venues' exits.

Mark Mattinson, York Dungeon's general manager, said the installation aimed to tackle increased drug use in the area. He told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: "Sadly, over the last couple of years we have noticed an increase in drug use in this area in both the daytime and the night time. We are working collaboratively with our neighbouring businesses to install the new security fencing and exit gates so that we can ensure this activity ceases." He hoped the fence would improve safety for guests, staff and contractors.

Mattinson noted that his attraction and others were facing challenges following falling footfall. Make It York figures showed an eight per cent year-on-year drop in city centre footfall to 15.08 million people from January to June. Visitor numbers to attractions fell 17 per cent compared to 2025, though they rose two per cent year-on-year from April to June.

How it is being reported

• Major York attraction speaks out on security plans and tourism 'challenges'The manager of a major York attraction has spoken out about its plans for new security measures and challenges facing the local tourism industry.Gazette & Herald (Malton) · 12 Oct, 16:00
• Major York attraction speaks out on security plans and tourism 'challenges'The manager of a major York attraction has spoken out about its plans for new security measures and challenges facing the local tourism industry.The Press (York) · 12 Oct, 16:00

In this story: York Dungeon · Merlin Entertainments · Mark Mattinson · York · Circuit Nightclub · York Council · Make It York

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