Theatre-goers could be able to drink until the early hours if a bid by a York theatre proves successful.

Bosses at the Grand Opera House, in Cumberland Street, want to open its doors until 2am, seven days a week.

They said today that the licensing application would not transform the venue into a late-night drinking venue, but would instead offer more flexibility to customers.

But a councillor said the proposal may flounder, because of a special licensing policy for the violence-hit area between Micklegate and Coppergate.

The policy, voted in last month, means applications for new licensed premises, or for major changes to existing licences, will normally be refused. Applicants must show how they would "not add to the cumulative impact already experienced" to get the go-ahead.

In a prepared statement, Lizzie Richards, general manager of the opera house, denied the theatre would become another nightclub or late-night pub.

She said: "As part of the changes relating to the new licensing act which comes into force in November of this year, the potential operating hours of the Grand Opera House have been reviewed.

"This variation to the existing licence replaces the current restrictions, which have not enabled any extension of hours for one-off occasions.

"It is not intended to alter the style of operation at the theatre in any way, and it is certainly not intended to turn it into a late-night drinking establishment.

"However, these changes will allow this splendid 1,000-seat venue to be more readily flexible in providing our existing and future customers with greater choice to suit their needs."

Coun Brian Watson, who represents the Guildhall ward, said the application could meet stiff resistance because of the special policy.

He said: "I can't understand why they want to do it. I know there's a bar there, but most people only use it during the interval."

Updated: 11:17 Friday, May 27, 2005