THE firm behind controversial plans to turn Durham's only cinema into a nightspot has rejected claims about its door staff.

Regent Inns, from London, is facing opposition from residents, the police and the City of Durham Trust in its attempt to convert the Robins Cinema, in the city's North Road, into an Australian-themed Walkabout venue.

The firm says its operations are well run but objectors fear that the 700-capacity bar will add to the growing problem of late-night disorder, particularly in North Road, where two nightclubs are already located.

Objectors say that police in other parts of the country have concerns about the operation of some Walkabout venues.

Durham's licensing justices have heard these included allegations that door staff at one Walkabout had batons and CS spray, while door staff at another had side-handled batons and knuckledusters.

But Walkabout operations manager Anthony Jackson said one doorman was alleged to have a baton but that was unfounded.

Another doorman accused of having CS gas was removed immediately and the company he worked for was replaced.

He also told the hearing that he checked with police about the side-handled baton and knuckleduster allegation and the officer he spoke to was unaware of it.

The firm is seeking a drinks licence and a special hours certificate that would allow the planned Walkabout to open until 1am on weekdays.

Steve Anderson, former co-owner of the Caf Rock and DH1 nightclubs, is objecting, along with residents, the City of Durham Trust and the city's police.

The police say that the £2m nightspot, which would employ 50 people, would stretch their resources in the early hours, leaving outlying villages without cover. Residents are concerned about noise and disturbance.

Earlier, Regent Inns' solicitor David Clifton said that the objections stemmed from problems that already existed in the city centre.

He said police had complimented the firm on its operations in other towns and cities.

"One of the issues is whether problems of law and order would be encountered if a licence was granted. It is our case that the answer is going to be 'not from these premises'."

He also said there would be "no noise escape whatsoever'' from the building.

The hearing continues