STOWMARKET residents are campaigning to stop a wine bar getting the go-ahead in their community, fearing late night noise and rowdiness disturbing their peace and quiet.

STOWMARKET residents are campaigning to stop a wine bar getting the go-ahead in their community, fearing late night noise and rowdiness disturbing their peace and quiet.

The town council and residents are opposing the former butchers shop in Wolsey Road, being converted in to a wine bar and licensed premises.

Christine White, of Wolsey Road, said she was deeply concerned about a new wine bar opening locally.

She said: "Over the years this road has gone from being shops for the community to a parade of take-aways, and now with the prospect of a late night wine bar, you try living here.''

Jeanette Pooley, of Kingsmead Road in Stowmarket, is concerned about traffic problems in the area which already has four take-aways and parking problems.

She added: "I'm sure I'm not the only resident who has reservations about this. I'm very concerned about a licensed property in an area which consists of a great deal of under 16s. The last thing we want to see is groups of youths hanging about late at night.''

Other concerns include drunkenness and people urinating in residents' front gardens and the town council has objected, concerned at a lack of information about the bar's opening hours and parking.

Agents for applicant Pat Mead, Parkyns, said the wine bar would operate normal licensing hours and there would be a flat above the premises for the manager or a member of staff.

Council officers, who recommend approving the application, argue it would be difficult to justify refusing the wine bar permission because of noise and disturbance, in an area with other businesses.