PLANS to reopen a nightclub in Billingham have been opposed by more than a hundred residents and police following concerns it would increase anti-social behaviour in the area.

The last licence for K2, in the town's West Precinct, expired four years ago and the building has been closed since then.

The building caused a lot of problems for the police with a murder and number of serious assaults taking place within the vicinity of the premises.

Neighbouring residents also complained about partygoers trampling over their cars, as well as the noise and increase in traffic.

Gerard Tompkinson, Cleveland Police's solicitor, said: "Historically, these premises have a reputation for contributing to serious public disorder in the Billingham area and the police fear that the re-licensing of these premises will lead to an increase in disorder.

"There will be an adverse impact on the use of police resources, to the detriment of the residential areas of Billingham and Stockton and there will be a substantial effect on the way Billingham town centre will need to be policed."

Members of Stockton Borough Council's licensing committee will meet today, to discuss the application to allow singing, music and dancing Monday to Saturday, from 11am to 2am, and on Sundays from noon to 12.30am.

Residents living nearby have signed a petition objecting to the reopening of the nightclub and have sent the council letters of objection.

One resident, who lives in nearby Roseberry Road, said: "During the past 40 years Roseberry Road has constantly been under siege. It appears anyone can do just what they like in this, one of the smallest roads in Billingham.

"It makes me sad to think that what once was a pretty tree-lined, quiet and pleasant place to live has become over the years dangerous, noisy and polluted. There is already enough traffic up and down, constantly undermining the infrastructure and causing long-term damage to hous-ing.

"I remember the problems we had with vandalism, fighting, removing gates, damaging cars and business property when the nightclub was open many years ago.

"This is not fair. We need time to sleep and rest.