POLICE have submitted extra evidence to back their claims that a planned night spot will increase city centre trouble.

Senior officers fear an increase in drink-fuelled disorder if the Robins Cinema, in North Road, Durham, becomes an Australian theme bar.

They objected to the planning application lodged with Durham City Council by Regent Inns, of London.

Shortly before councillors were due to consider the recommendation of planning officers to approve the scheme, police submitted more information to support their objections.

Head of planning, David Thornborrow, said that under the Crime and Disorder Act, councils had to consider the community safety implications of planning applications.

The development control committee agreed to defer a decision on the application, which is also opposed by the City of Durham Trust, neighbouring residents, and night club operators.

The planned night spot would be open until 2am, offering food, large screen TV and occasional live music.

Police, worried about last year's 14 per cent increase in drink-related crime, fear it will add to late night trouble.

The cinema's future is threatened by a multiplex cinema in the Walkergate leisure complex, being built by the city council and developer Amec.