THE police are objecting to an application by a 1970s revival bar in Darlington town centre to stay open until 2am.

The owners of Flares, in Skinnergate, want the bar to close at 2am from Wednesdays to Saturdays, rather than the present closing time of midnight.

They also want the bar to stay open later on Sundays, and to remain open until 12.30am on Mondays and 2am on bank holiday Mondays.

Fire officers and building control officers have not objected to the application, but police are opposed to the extension.

The police say that the later closing times would put an extra burden on their resources because of the increase in possible disorder, and would upset residents.

A police spokesman said: "The granting of the variation would increase littering and unsanitary acts.

"This would have an effect upon the appearance of the street and, therefore, potential impact upon neighbouring retail premises."

The spokesman also suggested that future applications for late licenses could not be defended if Flares was allowed to stay open until the early hours.

People living in nearby Arcadia Court have complained about the application, as have the owners of Mr Bojangles and the Plastered Parrot bars who say Flares, as a pub, should not be allowed to stay open later.

The application will be discussed at a council meeting on Wednesday.