Flagey bars must close terraces by 0.30

Bars around Place Flagey will be required to close their terraces half an hour earlier from this weekend - at 0.30 instead of 1.00.

The Ecolo-PS majority on the town council adopted the new regulations last week, which will come into force on Friday 28 June.

Bars must put all outdoor furniture, including ashtrays, away by 0.30 or risk a fine.

The new rules aim to reduce noise nuisance, in a part of Brussels known for its lively nightlife - but which is also heavily populated.

Ixelles' new mayor, Christos Doulkeridis, said: "It is a question of balance. The goal is to allow residents to sleep. They have the right to peace and quiet in their neighbourhood."

The municipality will also set up a "night-time council" made up of residents, shopkeepers, bar owners and police "to discuss and find the best possible compromise on how to manage nightlife in Ixelles".

Last year, the former town council introduced a ban on drinking outside around Place Flagey between midnight and 8.00. After complaints from bars, the required closure time for terraces was moved to 1.00.