Lancashire Police object to Preston Guild Hall late night alcohol plan

Preston Guild Hall opened in 1972

Police have objected to an application by Preston's Guild Hall to be able to sell alcohol until 06:00.

The venue, council owned until 2014, wants the late-night alcohol licence as part of plans to open 24 hours a day.

Preston city councillors will discuss the application - as well as Lancashire Police's reasons for opposing it - at a meeting later.

Police are worried that an extended licence could result in more crime and anti-social behaviour.

The force said the plans would have a "significant impact" on the policing of the night-time economy and "change the face and nature" of the 44-year-old venue.

It said the move could encourage other venues to seek later licences - fuelling even more crime and disorder in the city centre.