Milan has once again backed down on attempts to ban ice cream from its streets after midnight.
Following widespread criticism, the city’s council has U-turned on its plans that would have cracked down on late night snacking on its streets.
The council claimed the proposed ban was to protect the “tranquility” of residents, but for many a late-night gelato is a part of Italian culture.
Earlier this month, Milan’s local government filed a legislative starting paper which would’ve banned the serving of ice cream and pizzas outdoors in the northern Italian city late at night, starting from 17 May.
However, following a widespread backlash, security councillor Marco Granelli has said the local government has backed down.
He said the new law will instead focus on drinks, especially alcohol, and ice cream and takeaway foods will not be banned.
The proposed ban would have covered 12 districts, kicking in from 12.30am on weekdays, and 1.30am on weekends and public holidays, applying to outdoor tables only.
Mr Granelli previously said: “The goal is to seek a balance between socialising and entertainment, and the peace and tranquility of residents.”
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However, this isn’t the first time Milan has made an attempt to ban ice cream.
Back in 2013, the then mayor Giuliano Pisapia tried to implement similar measures.
City authorities in Milan had also proposed a ban on the sale of pizza while sitting at a table outside after midnight. Pic: iStock
But he too faced a fierce backlash, including a reported ‘occupy gelato’ movement, which led to him backing down.
He was reported as having said after backtracking: “People can eat ice cream day and night, anywhere they like.”
