BOSSES at a 14th Century Suffolk hotel have moved to allay fears that opening until the early hours would create a haven for anti-social noise and disturbance.

BOSSES at a 14th Century Suffolk hotel have moved to allay fears that opening until the early hours would create a haven for anti-social noise and disturbance.

Proposals to open Lavenham's Swan Hotel until 1am six days a week have been met with some concern among local residents who fear their idyllic surroundings could be ruined.

But managers at the hotel, described as the “jewel” in Lavenham's crown, have tried to ease the concerns, which were voiced after a formal application was submitted to Babergh District Council.

Michael Burn, general manager, said: “We take any concerns from residents very seriously but we don't anticipate there being any problem at all.

“We currently have to apply for a temporary extension notice when we want to open late - for weddings or parties - but with this application, it would mean we would have a permanent licence.

“But we will certainly not be staying open that late often and most of the time, people will leave by midnight. And we have stringent controls in place - like reminding customers when they leave to be quiet, closing windows and displaying appropriate signage.”

Under the plans submitted to the council, bosses at the High Street hotel are applying to sell alcohol and have live or recorded music at the premises until 1am, Monday to Saturday, and midnight on Sundays.

The plans have not found favour with some residents in the picture postcard village, who believe the proposed opening hours are too late.

One villager, who did not want to be named, said: “I won't be very happy if they do stay open this late and I would certainly object.

“I am concerned it will impact on our standard of living as the noise could be very great. I do think closing at 1am is a bit extravagant.”

The Swan has served as a hostelry since before the reign of King Henry VIII and was once key to Lavenham's famed wool trade.