One of Italy's most famous cities, Milan, has sparked controversy with a proposal to ban the sale of ice cream and pizza after midnight. The new regulation is said to be aimed at groups and tourists who enjoy nightlife, citing concerns about noise, litter and public order.
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Venturing down the cobbled streets of Milan in search of a late-night gelato is part of Italian culture for many city dwellers, and a must-do for the millions of tourists who visit Italy's fashion capital each year.
Finding a late-night gelato is part of Italian culture for many residents in the city.
But a new law could put an end to this long-standing tradition. Marco Granelli, the city’s deputy mayor in charge of security, recently announced plans to ban the sale of takeaway food and drinks after midnight to maintain “peace” in the city’s 12 busiest districts.
The city's goal is to find a balance between social and recreational life as well as the peace and health of its residents. Residents believe in a vibrant city where young and old have space to share together.
The ban, which officials say is necessary to address excessive noise in residential areas, will also prevent establishments from serving food and drinks in outdoor areas between 12:30 a.m. and 6 a.m. on weekdays and 1:30 a.m. and 6 a.m. on weekends.
Critics say the ban goes against Italian culture and are calling for a law change. If passed, the lockdown would come into effect as early as next month and last until November, after this year's tourist season ends.
Plan to ban takeaway food and drink sales after midnight to maintain “peace”
However, the plan is controversial and not widely supported. Many people believe that Milan officials are declaring war on the northern Italian city's famous ice cream. They argue that gathering late at night to eat ice cream has become an indispensable tradition in the national culture.
We are not changing the culture, just imposing small restrictions. Mr. Barbieri can come to my office and see hundreds of complaints from people who can't sleep."
Despite the protests, the mayor of this city still firmly maintains his stance. For him and the residents here, they do not change the culture but only apply measures to hundreds of complaints sent to the mayor's office because people "lose sleep".
This is not the first time that the idea of banning ice cream after midnight has caused controversy in Milan. In 2013, city officials made a similar proposal but eventually withdrew it under public pressure.
The debate over Milan's "ice cream ban" is still ongoing, with the public waiting for the city's response to the mixed reactions from residents and businesses.
