CONCERNS about increased crime and disorder continue to mount over a brewery's plans to transform a Darlington pub.

Scottish and Newcastle want to refurbish The Wheatsheaf, in Yarm Road, and provide evening entertainment, including music and dancing.

The expansion plan would mean the pub being able to hold more than 400 people at any one time.

The scheme has met strong opposition from residents living close to the pub, who fear an increase in vandalism and violence.

More than 20 letters of objections have been received, two petitions of objections with a total of 142 signatures and three telephone calls to the council expressing concern.

The youth offending and community safety services in Darlington have also objected to the proposal, believing that there is a potential for increased nuisance, littering and rowdy behaviour.

They are also concerned that police resources at evenings and weekends are focused on the town centre and are worried that good order in and around the pub would not be maintained.

The brewery had originally applied for a special hours certificate so that the pub could stay open until 2am on weekends. That was amended to a midnight closing time.

As a result of residents concerns, the police held talks with the brewery's management. Subsequently, the special hours certificate application was withdrawn and the public entertainment licence amended so that closing time would be 11pm.

A revised drawing of the proposed layout has been submitted showing arrangements for wheelchair users, closed-circuit TV cameras, and the locations of entrance and exit doors.

Despite protests, the council granted permission to partly demolish a conservatory and create a fenced-off outdoor drinking area.

The brewery is hoping that workers from Orange and Yarm Road Industrial estate will use the facilities.

It has assured residents that the Wheatsheaf will not be turned into a theme pub.

The scheme is expected to create 25 jobs.

A brewery spokesman said: "It is a community pub and it will continue to be a community pub."

The council's licensing committee deferred the application for an entertainment licence on April 10 and the case is to be heard next Wednesday.