AN application by an Oulton Broad bar to extend its opening hours has triggered a wave of opposition from neighbours who already claim to feel 'under siege' at weekends.

AN application by an Oulton Broad bar to extend its opening hours has triggered a wave of opposition from neighbours who already claim to feel 'under siege' at weekends.

More than 40 residents from nearby roads are contesting the bid by Bridges bar to vary the premises licence to stay open two hours later on Friday and Saturday nights.

The owner, J V Trading Properties, is seeking permission from Waveney District Council to extend the opening times to 12.30am on Mondays to Thursdays, 2.30am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 11.30pm on Sundays.

It currently closes at 11.30pm on weekdays, 12.30am on Fridays and Saturdays and 11pm on Sundays.

The owners of the bar, on Bridge Road, also want to vary the licence hours for live and recorded music.

Dozens of residents of Commodore Road and Bridge Road signed a letter submitted to the council saying they wanted to contest the proposed extended hours not only for Bridges, but also for any other premises.

It states that residents already experience problems at weekends as late as 4am from revellers in the area, which has several other bars and pubs, adding: 'Our opposition is based on the recent increase in noise and disgusting behaviour during and after-closing hours.'

The letter claims that residents suffer from sleepless nights and 'open abuse' if they confront revellers leaving nearby bars and heading for their cars or taxis.

'The increase in debris and wanton vandalism, damaged walls, fences and theft of for sale boards and garden urns,' it states. 'Not to mention the glasses and bottles smashed outside our homes, as well as the urination and vomit we regularly have to remove in order to enter our properties.'

It adds: 'As residents of a 'village' we feel under siege from Thursday to Sunday morning.'

The district council's licensing premises panel is due to make a decision on Wednesday.