OPPONENTS of an Australian theme bar hope to win their battle against a national pub chain next week.

On Monday, Durham Crown Court will begin hearing Regent Inns' appeal against the North Durham Licensing Committee's refusal of a drinks licence for the Walkabout pub, proposed for North Road, in Durham.

The £2m venue, with a 700 capacity, would be created in the building that houses the city's only cinema, the Robins.

Opponents, including the police, residents and City of Durham Trust, say the nightspot would add to early hours noise, nuisance and violence in North Road, which is already home to two nightclubs.

The licensing committee refused the licence - the firm has planning permission and an entertainment licence - saying that the new venue would add to the area's difficulties.

They described Regent Inns as a reputable operator, despite police claims of problems at other Walkabouts, including fighting and overcrowding.

Regent Inns maintained its development would improve North Road and help alleviate the street's problems by attracting a more mature clientele.

City of Durham Trust chairman Roger Cornwell said trustees were particularly worried about the potential for trouble and the increased queues for taxis.

Regent Inns national operations manager Anthony Jackson could not be reached for comment.

Property company Troveworth, which owns the Robins building, has said the cinema is no longer viable and will close whatever the appeal's outcome.

It has rejected claims that the cinema offered to invest £200,000 in refurbishing the building.

A spokesman said the company had a legally binding agreement for Regent Inns to take over the building.