PERMISSION has been granted for a £2.4m bar and restaurant development on a cinema site, despite police warnings about possible disorder.

Luminar Leisure, which already runs the Chicago Rock Caf and Liquid nightclub, in Middlesbrough, asked Middlesbrough Borough Council for permission to open a Jumpin Jaks bar- part of a national chain - where the Odeon cinema stands, in Corporation Road.

The firm has already bought the building, which is due to close in June.

Before the application was heard yesterday, police solicitor Gerard Tompkinson wrote to the licensing committee complaining that the venue would increase traffic problems, lower drinks prices and result in more trouble.

Steve Dennis, who applied for a public entertainment licence on behalf of the firm, denied any cause for concern.

He said: "There will be two separate CCTV systems at Jumpin Jaks and signs saying 'you are being recorded by CCTV cameras'."

The cinema will be replaced by a bar with a restaurant and dance floor. Entertainment will be laid on by staff and visiting groups.

Another company will run a gym above it.