A DARLINGTON supermarket is planning to be the first in the town to open 24 hours a day.

The Asda store, in Whinbush Way, is also hoping to be allowed to serve alcohol round the clock.

However, the manager of the supermarket has said she is keen to meet with any local residents to discuss any concerns they may have.

Darlington Borough Council's licensing committee is to decide whether to allow the new licence at its meeting on Wednesday.

The council has received five letters of objection concerning a possible increase in anti-social behaviour and under-age drinking.

One resident, Marian Cansfield of Stonehaven Way, said: "The premises to which the application applies is within very close proximity to a primary school and two aged persons residential homes/flats as well as the housing estate on which I live.

"I believe the current opening hours of the store, in addition to the availability of alcohol in the public house next door to Asda, offers more than enough scope for the acceptable purchase of alcoholic beverages."

A spokesman for Asda said the store was planning a re-fit in October to link in with the plans, which involve a 24-hour liquor licence.

He said: "Some people do actually like to do their shopping at 2am, and while they're doing it they want to buy their drinks for the week.

"We have quite a good structure in place when it comes to serving alcohol.

"We have a Challenge 21 policy, where anybody who looks under 21 is asked to provide ID.

"We also have security permanently on site, along with senior managers and will not serve anyone who is over the limit."

He said approximately 80 per cent of Asda stores had 24-hour liquor licences and there had been very few problems.

Darlington store manager Candice Wadey said she would be happy to meet with any concerned residents and can be contacted on (01325) 373400.

The licensing meeting takes place at 9.30am in the town hall.