Milan Scraps Midnight Ice Cream Ban After Public Outcry

Milan  - In a reversal of policy, Milan's city council has abandoned plans to ban ice cream and pizza sales after midnight following widespread criticism. This comes just weeks after the proposal was introduced, marking the second time the city has attempted and failed to implement such a measure.

The proposed legislation, aimed at curbing late-night noise and disruption, would have prohibited takeaway food and beverages, including gelato, from being sold after midnight in designated areas. However, the plan sparked public outrage, with many viewing it as an attack on Italian culture and a deterrent to tourism.

"The anti-ice cream law was absurd," said Lino Enrico Stoppani, president of the Italian Federation of Businesses, reflecting the public sentiment. "[It] was a devastating message for the tourism we live on."

Security councillor Marco Granelli acknowledged the public's concerns and confirmed the revised approach. "Ice cream is not the item we are interested in," he stated, emphasizing the focus on curbing alcohol sales instead.

This isn't the first time Milan has grappled with this issue. A similar attempt to restrict late-night food sales in 2013 faced a similar backlash and was ultimately scrapped. The current proposal allowed for public feedback until May 10th before implementation, which is no longer relevant with the revised plans.

This revised approach highlights the importance of public engagement in shaping local regulations. While the council sought to address noise concerns, the public outcry demonstrates the importance of balancing resident needs with cultural traditions and economic considerations.