A LICENCEE has threatened to open a bar later after a rival night spot has been granted permission to expand its premises.

Bossa Nova in New Street has been given permission by councillors to change the use of a former Hatt Kitchens shop at 14 Reindeer Court, which adjoins the club, to a “drinking establishment”.

This formed part of a planning application to install a new frontage to Bossa Nova’s New Street entrance while extending the opening hours, allowing the business to run as a wine bar/restaurant as well as a jazz/dance club with bars.

Speaking at Worcester City Council’s planning committee meeting, Darren Pinches, co-owner of Bushwackers and Sin, said he would have to review the licence for Sin, based in New Street, which currently closes at midnight, if Bossa Nova was allowed to expand and open until 3am.

“We hope the committee gives us a level playing field if you do look at making this decision,” he said. “It may force other operators in that street to go for a late licence.

“It will be a great loss to Worcester if New Street became a new late night facility.”

Bossa Nova was already allowed to open until 3am on licensing grounds but concerns were raised that the expansion of the premises – while not listed itself it does fall within a conservation area – could ruin the historic street.

Dean Hill, manager of Tramps in Angel Place, also spoke out against Bossa Nova’s plans.

“The impact additional trade will have on New Street is quite immense,” he said. “It’s a highly residential area that could end up with more noise and disturbance. New Street is a very historical part of the city.

“There’s a very fine balance between daytime and night-time trade. You could end up splitting the trade over three separate areas of the city.”

Paul Fong, the agent speaking on behalf of the applicant Graham Lock, reminded the committee that the council’s environmental health officers and West Mercia Police had no objection to the plans which will create between 40 and 50 jobs.

After hearing from planning officer Nick Kay that the new frontage of the building would be acceptable in its design for the area seven councillors voted in favour of the proposal. Only three members abstained.