COUNCILLORS will decide on the future of a new bar and restaurant in Darlington tomorrow.

Darlington Borough Council's licensing sub-committee will discuss an application for an alcohol license for Cocoa Bliss, at 54 Bondgate, in Darlington town centre.

The proposal is that the premises, listed as a 'bar/restaurant', would be allowed to serve alcohol, for consumption both on and off-premises, from 11am to 1am every day.

But the application has drawn criticism from neighbouring residents and businesses.

Nine representations were made following the application in November, but one was withdrawn when the council discovered that the complainant knew nothing about the application.

Included in the remaining representations are landlord Altun Bulduck, who said: "Allowing 54 Bondgate to be open until from 11am till 1am everyday of the week to serve alcohol and play recorded music will affect the quality of life for my current tenants."

Nearby resident Robert Hutchinson said: "I'm registered blue badge disabled and need access to the rear of my yard which is blocked by cars already on a regular basis.

"There is a severe parking problem already without this."

At the meeting tomorrow, held at 9.30am in Darlington Town Hall, members of the committee will have to decide on one of three options: to grant the licence with set conditions, to attach more conditions, or to reject all or part of the application.

Members of the public are welcome to attend. For the result, see tomorrow's The Northern Echo.