A controversial bid to play music at a Dovercourt hotel until 2am has failed amid fears it would become like a nightclub.

Residents living near The Cliff Hotel, Marine Parade, feared an extension of its public entertainment licence would attract drinkers after pub turning out time.

They claimed they were kept awake by music and late-night revellers leaving the seafront hotel and were worried the situation would get worse.

Tendring Council's licensing sub-committee have refused a 2am Monday to Saturday licence, which would have increased it by 12 hours a week.

A total of 21 letters of objection were sent to Tendring Council, including one from Harwich Town Council.

Hotel owner Dave Pratt told the sub-committee: "We have lots of ships that come into the area and after 11 o'clock there is nowhere for them to go if they want a drink, something to eat and a dance."

Published Monday, January 27, 2003

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