A CITY'S only mainstream cinema has received a stay of execution of at least six months.

London leisure chain Regent Inns wants to convert Durham's Robins Cinema, in North Road, into a 700-capacity Walkabout Australian theme bar.

Despite winning planning approval from the city council, Regent Inns was refused a drinks licence and special hours certificate, to open until 1am, earlier this year.

Licensing justices panel chairman Bob Hall said premises of such a size and nature would lead to "a significant increase in noise, nuisance, disturbance and disorder", particularly in North Road and surrounding streets. Regent Inns said it planned to appeal against the decision and a hearing date was set yesterday, at Durham Crown Court.

A seven-day hearing is due to start at the court on October 28.

Durham Police oppose the application, concerned at late night noise and disturbance in the area, where there are already two nightclubs.

Other objectors include the City of Durham Trust, some local residents, and the former owners of the neighbouring night spots.

Trust chairman Roger Cornwell said he was disappointed to hear of the appeal, but not surprised, and hoped the outcome would be similar to the justices' hearing.