POLICE have opposed plans for a bar in Stockton High Street to stay open longer because of concerns over the impact it would have on force resources in the area.

Stockton Borough Council received an application from the Ibiza Bar to extend its licence from 11pm on a Monday to Wednesday and 12pm on a Thursday and Sunday, to 12pm Monday and Tuesday and 1am Wednesday to Saturday.

The bar is licensed for music, singing, dancing and sports entertainment and has a maximum occupancy level of 320.

Situated on High Street, it is approximately 50 metres from the junction with Bridge Road and Yarm Lane.

Julia Hatton, legal advisor at Cleveland Police, said: "The main area of concern for the police is what occurs once the clientele leave the premises, as within a 200 metre radius of the junction there are 23 licensed premises.

"At present, 3,530 persons could be leaving these premises at 2am. If Ibiza Bar is allowed this application this could increase by 320.

"There will be an adverse impact upon the use of police resources to the detriment of the rest of the area, which includes Stockton, Billingham, Yarm and Thornaby."

Stockton council's licensing committee debates the issue on Tuesday next week.