A POPULAR bar has applied for a new licence - but police have objected to the plans, saying they were called out to the venue 51 times last year.

The Stone Roses Bar in King Street has asked for a licence to play live music, sell alcohol and open from 11am to 2.30am seven days a week, after the premises’ previous licence lapsed.

The bar has also launched a petition to save the venue, saying it is at risk of closing for good because of the licensing dispute. More than 5,600 people have already signed. The petition calls on supporters to help the venue continue its “14 year legacy”.

But North Yorkshire Police have opposed plans for the new licence, saying there was a 34 per cent rise in calls to incidents at Stone Roses Bar in 2018 compared to 2017.

Officers were called to the premises 51 times last year for incidents including violence, anti-social behaviour and thefts, according to North Yorkshire Police.

In a statement prepared for the council’s licensing committee, police said: “North Yorkshire Police have been concerned about the increase in calls for service.

“Two meetings have taken place with the police and management within the last six months to discuss the concerns and ascertain what measures the venue are taking to promote the licensing objectives, and address the increase, with the most recent meeting on December 12, 2018. As such the applicants are aware of the concerns from the police.”

City of York Council’s licensing authority and public protection teams also objected to the plans.

In a statement, they said: “Public protection object to the above application on grounds of public nuisance. We have been unable to agree conditions that will safeguard against noise and anti-social behaviour and will therefore be making representations against the premises licence grant.”

But the applicant for the bar says all full-time staff will be trained in first aid and fire safety, CCTV will be installed at the venue, the maximum capacity will be 100 people, and there will be door supervisors at the premises. They added that all doors and windows will be closed when there is live entertainment at the bar and signs asking customers to leave quietly will be installed.

The bar is currently shut and a sign on the door says: “Due to unforeseen circumstances we will be closed until February. We’ll keep you updated through social media. Sorry. We’re aiming to be open as fast as we can.”

Stone Roses Bar has been approached but did not wish to comment. The application will be considered by members of the licensing committee at a hearing on February 7 at 10am at West Offices.