CIVIC pressure group officials fear a successful late licence bid by a city centre drinking venue may "open the floodgates".

City of Durham Trust chairman Roger Cornwell and his predecessor, Mary Sales, were speaking last night after unsuccessfully opposing an hour-long extension to the licence for the Walkabout premises.

The 700-capacity Australian theme bar, in North Road, can now stay open until 2am from Monday to Saturday, and to 12.30am on Sundays.

North Durham licensing justices granted the application after a contested hearing at Durham Magistrates' Court lasting more than six hours.

Walkabout chain owner Regent Inns said the extended opening was sought because of customer demand.

A spokeswoman said that longer licensing led to a more gradual dispersal of drinkers on to streets.

She spoke of extensive staff training to spot trouble-makers and said the company had a zero-tolerance approach to drunkenness. Regent Inns also plans to provide transport home for customers on Friday and Saturday nights.

The trust and eight residents objected, fearing disorder problems.

Speaking after the hearing, Mr Cornwell said it may also encourage more later licence applications from premises.

He said: "It may well open the floodgates. Walkabout paint a picture saying there won't be problems, but I think it is a gamble."