After a stalemate stand-off between residents having to put up with all the noise of Budapest’s party zone and those whose livelihoods depend on it, the District VII task force dealing with the problem has just issued a draconian directive. In it, bars and clubs there must now close by midnight. Restaurants may apply for a permit, annually renewable, to run after 12 o’clock.
In addition, bars and clubs must use a high-pressure cleaner to clear up all waste on the pavement immediately outside, on a daily basis. There will also be strict limitations on noise and crowd numbers.
It is not yet clear how bar owners will respond and if there will be any kind of appeals process.
