A SIX-YEAR planning row over opening hours at the Studio 41 nightclub in Canterbury has finally come to an end.

After much debate, an application to extend the opening hours until 2am on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays has been granted.

On behalf of Studio 41 Martin Mulligan said: "I am ecstatic, it is a massive relief. I have been able to tell members of staff that they can keep their jobs. It has cost us £124,000 to fight for this."

The successful application means that Europe's largest Lazer gaming centre, Planet Lazer is also secure.

Studio 41 has now been brought into line with other late night venues in the city such as The Bizz, Chicago Rock Cafe and The Venue on the Kent University which all open until 2am.

The nightclub, which has a capacity for 200 people, will also open until 1am from Monday through to Wednesday nights.

Cllr Chris Took (Lib Dem) told Tuesday's development control committee that he had an advantage over other councillors by experiencing the club first hand.

He said: "I have been to the club and have never had any problems there before. The security is fair but firm with dealing with anti-social behaviour. I have been to many of the clubs in Canterbury and this one is very good."

Studio 41 hosts popular specialist evenings including the retro night Time Tunnel on Fridays and Girls And BoYs on Saturdays both of which have dedicated followings.

Cllr Mike Patterson (Con) said: "It is unrealistic in this day and age to close a nightclub at 12am. It is time we gave this place a chance."

Cllr Bill Oakey (Con) agreed with Cllr Patterson, saying: "We are hoping to run a 24-hour economy in Canterbury so how can we do that if we don't allow the club to stay open until 2am?"