OPPONENTS of plans to convert Durham's Robins Cinema into a nightclub are hoping that licensing magistrates will block the scheme.

Plans for the building, in North Road, moved a step forward when city councillors gave planning permission, despite police objections.

Now, Regent Inns, of London, which is proposing an Australian theme night spot called Walkabout Inn, needs to get a drinks licence and permission to open from 11am to 2am each day.

But when the application is heard by Durham's licensing panel, police will object, saying that the development will increase incidents of disorder, which are already rising.

The city council's development control committee, while approving the planning application, will raise concerns about the long opening hours.

The independent cinema has been under threat for some time because of the prospect of a multiplex opening in the city's Walkergate development.

Although no operator has been signed up, developer Amec has said that it was in negotiations with an interested company.

The Robins is on a three-month lease with the building's owners, Troveworth, and insiders say it could close by the summer.

Residents, neighbouring night clubs and the City of Durham Trust also objected to the scheme.