EXTRA taxis are to be laid on to cope with new demand from revellers.

Chester-le-Street District Council is looking at creating a new rank in Front Street to cater for drinkers at the new Chicago Rock Caf.

The £1m, 650-capacity venue opened in Front Street in March and there are proposals for a large nightclub next door.

The council is working with private company Capita Symonds on two schemes, to upgrade the rank in Bridge End and to make an all-night rank for ten cabs at the south end of Front Street.

Public consultation on the proposals will start later this month.

An update report will be presented to the council's licensing committee at its meeting in Chester-le-Street Civic Centre on Wednesday, at 6.30pm.