A bar in Folkestone is appealing to extend its opening hours after branding the town’s night-life “inadequate”.

Bank Bar in Bouverie Road West has made an application to planning officers at Shepway District Council (SDC) to remain open until 1am on a Monday, Tuesday and Sunday, 3am on a Wednesday and 4am on a Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

It is also applying to be open until 6am on bank holidays.

But the application has already sparked objection from residents, one of whom has branded it “absurd”.

More than 10 people had commented on the plans as the Express went to press on Tuesday.

Those living in the residential area fear that if the council gives the plan the nod, they will be subject to noise and anti-social behaviour.

Natalie Tonolini said: “This is an absolutely absurd idea. This is a residential area where people live with their families and young children.

'This is a residential area where people live with their families and young children.' - Natalie Tonolini

“There is enough noise that comes from the Bank Bar as it is without adding extra hours.”

Ella Riley added: “I am very shocked and disheartened.”

The planning statement from the bar said: “Currently, late-night options for people in the town are limited, to put it mildly.

“We firmly believe that we as a venue will be a good candidate to serve the needs of a subset of the population who feel that the current night options are not adequate.”

It said that revellers are choosing to stay indoors or go to Canterbury for a night out.

The application says that door supervisors monitor the number of people allowed in the smoking area from 11pm.

These members of staff are also responsible for keeping doors close to muffle the noise, it said.

Plans to upgrade the premises’ CCTV cameras are underway but the bar will await the planning decision before installing new and improved surveillance.

It is nearly a year since Club Onyx, formerly La Parisienne, was demolished.

The club would often remain open until 3am and was the town’s only remaining nightclub. The seafront is now being prepared for regeneration, with housing and leisure venues.