THE new-look Abbey Hotel Golf and Country Club has been granted an extended public entertainment licence, despite residents' objections, writes Matt Smith.

Licensing Sub-Committee members gave the go-ahead for the £4m club to extend drinking hours after a town hall meeting despite strong opposition from Abbey Park residents.

A dozen letters of complaint were received, including one from Abbey Park Residents' Association.

Councillors agreed to the license if the club took on board points recommended by the environmental health officers, including closing windows and doors and an authorised person on site during entertainment hours.

When finished, the Abbey Hotel Golf and Country Club will be open from 7.30pm-midnight from Sunday to Thursday and 7.30pm-1am on Friday and Saturday.

In December, the hours will be 7.30pm-12.30am from Sunday to Thursday.