A student bar in Medway which is leaving residents at their “wits’ end” is set to have its opening hours extended next week.

The University of Kent’s plans to keep its CARGO bar/bistro on Pier Road, Gillingham, open for an extra hour – until midnight – every night is due to be discussed by Medway Council’s planning committee next Wednesday.

The applicant also wants the facility to be given permission to remain open until 5am for up to 10 days a year, rather than the current restriction of 50 days up until 1am.

Council officers have recommended the licence alterations are approved.

Agent Jim Ratchford’s application reads: “The wish is to increase the standard hours by a modest one hour in line with most similar businesses.

“The current position effectively means ‘last orders’ at 10.30pm, and an even earlier reduction in the availability of the restaurant service in order to close the premises by 11pm.

“The increase would allow for better service to customers and the dispersal of patrons in the evening.”

The university says its “loyal following of supporters of world sports” is the reason behind its proposal to open until 5am for up to 10 occasions during the academic year, allowing it to show sports such as baseball, American football and basketball on television.

“This is not a campus and not the centre of town – it is a residential area with young children that regularly witness high levels of police activity, caused by drug use and anti-social behaviour fuelled by extreme levels of alcohol use...” - Kelly Clarkson

As part of the plan, students would also be allowed to bring “guests” – described as parents, other relatives or non-student friends – after 11pm, something which is currently prohibited.

Five neighbours have submitted objections to the council, calling for the application to be refused on the grounds of anti-social behaviour.

Kelly Clarkson, who lives in Milner Road, wrote: “The installation of this facility has only served to have a negative impact on the local residents who are already at their wits’ end with the level of student activity in the area.

“This is not a campus and not the centre of town – it is a residential area with young children that regularly witness high levels of police activity, caused by drug use and anti-social behaviour fuelled by extreme levels of alcohol use.”