THE lawyer acting on behalf of the bar owners who were refused an extended alcohol licence last week said they may consider an appeal.

Bosses at Sutra, in High Road, Whetstone, were granted a licence to re-open after councillors approved changes to the upstairs layout of the bar.

But an application to extend the opening hours at weekends until as late as 2.30am was rejected after a Barnet Council licensing sub-committee heard from some residents concerned with the noise and drunken behaviour of people leaving the club.

People voiced concerns over the location of the premises, stating a late licence would be inappropriate for the densely residential area.

But speaking after the decision not to grant the extended hours, Julian Skeens, solicitor for the bar's directors, said: “We have a right to appeal and I will consider with my client what we do.

“I was very disappointed with the decision and I would hope we could reverse that on appeal.

“We're pleased the plans were granted and look forward to working with local residents to minimise any concerns that they have.”

Socrates Protopapas, joint director of the premises, reassured residents there were measures in place to deter antisocial behaviour in the area after closing.

He said: “I am disappointed with the overall result, but relieved it is open again.

“We are very responsible owners. We have got more door men and CCTV than any other premises in the area.”

More than 60 people submitted written representations to the committee prior to the hearing in objection to the later licence application.

They were joined by the three Conservative ward councillors who were critical of the impact the club has on the area.

John Ward, of Swan Lane, who spoke at the meeting against the plans, said: “We are relieved the late licence has not been granted, but we don't know what will happen if they do go to appeal.

“People are concerned with the extension of hours there because it is a really residential area.”