Hostelry businesses in Nerja are demanding urgent action to combat the losses being suffered as a result of the introduction of the new Anti Smoking Law.
Bar and restaurant owners are asking for an increase in the allocation of terrace areas of around 30% and a discount of 30% on tariffs for members of the Asociación de Empresarios de Nerja or Nerja Centro.
The Council is apparently ruling out any immediate increase in the terrace areas but is willing to discuss discounted tariffs for members of the various business organisations.
Businessmen believe any sort of measure to reduce the tax burden would be most beneficial in countering the fall in business in many places since the introduction of the new laws.
As you walk around the town, some bars without the benefit of a terrace have already stuck a small table outside the premises for smokers to place their drinks while they have a puff.
Elsewhere, it is now a common sight to see groups of people standing in bar, shop or office doorways or outside on the pavement to have a fag.