Speaking at a meeting of the district licensing and enforcement committee, Cllr Andrew Smith said Chichester had clearly not seen the problems experienced in some other parts of the country.

But there were an 'astonishing number' of drinking establishments in South Street, and Friday and Saturday nights were 'quite lively'.

"While there may not be outrageous behaviour, it is quite intimidating for certain age groups, or anyone who feels slightly vulnerable, when significantly large numbers of people are out and have had plenty to drink," he said.

"Although it is not violent, the sheer numbers can be quite intimidating."

He observed a number of police vehicles there one evening.

"This is a double-edged sword – whether it adds reassurance, or increases the concerns of some people who might want to go out for a quiet meal and find themselves surrounded by people who have been drinking," said Cllr Smith.

Principal licensing officer Laurence Foord said the South Street and Southgate area had been identified via a special joint action group.

"We have set up a local action team in relation to this area, and convened a meeting which was attended by about 50 to 60 members of the trade," he told the committee.

"Key issues affecting both residents and businesses have been identified, and steps are being taken to tackle these. Not all the problems are associated with licensed premises."

Another meeting was planned for April 2, and initiatives would be put in place to tackle the situation.

Mr Foord said the introduction of the Licensing Act had been seen as a success in Chichester, compared with some other authorities.

A very pro-active stance had been taken in administering and enforcing the Act, with early police and licensing authority intervention.

Fear of major problems had not materialised, and the overall picture was the situation was improving.

"We have developed strong working relationships with the police, environmental health and the licensing trade," said Mr Foord.