PEOPLE opposed to a new nightclub in Billingham have been asked to monitor anti-social behaviour at the venue - by councillors who approved the plans.

Members of Stockton Borough Council's licensing committee yesterday granted an amended entertainments licence for K2, in West Precinct.

After hearing from residents and the police about violence and anti-social behaviour associated with previous clubs on the site, the committee granted the licence for six months.

But councillors told residents unhappy with the decision that they should keep an eye on the behaviour of revellers coming in and out of the club.

A murder several years ago and a number of serious assaults in a nearby car park have given the building a notorious reputation.

But Cynthia Brynes, who represented the protestors at the meeting, felt a compromise had been reached.

She said: "We are disappointed that it has been granted, but we are thankful they will have to be back to renew it in six months.

"The fact we have been told to keep an eye on it is a compromise, I suppose. This means we may yet have a say in the future of this club."

Under the conditions of the licence, the club must limit opening hours to 11pm from Monday to Wednesday, it must close all the windows and doors during disco hours and install soundproofing.

Denise Higgins, area manager for national pub chain Pyramid Pub Management, said an estimated £250,000 must be spent on the club to meet health and safety regulations. She was granted a liquour licence last December.

The venture is expected to create 30 jobs.