An application to open a controversial new nightclub close to Sutton town centre has been turned down.

Ademuyiwa Adeleke submitted an application in February to open a new late night bar and restaurant for the "alternative music crowd" in Grove Road, Sutton, on the site of former pub The Academy, which was closed in 2007.

But the proposals, which included a licence to serve alcohol until 4.30am, seven days a week, caused concern among people living nearby, councillors and police.

The venue is close to high-rise residential blocks in Sutton Park Road, and is opposite the Greensleeves Manor housing development.

A petition was launched against the plans, with Sutton Council receiving 250 objections.

The council's licensing sub-committee turned down the application at a meeting on March 28.

Sutton Police told the hearing its concerns included problems of crime and disorder the venue could bring, and a difficulty in dispersing people in Grove Road.

Ward councillors drew attention to problems of public nuisance from noise emanating from the premises, from the use of the smoking area immediately below a block of flats, and from fights and drunken people leaving the premises, problems of litter, disturbance at night from external lighting and criminal damage.

Residents said the premises would damage their quality of life as a result of patrons’ behaviour outside the premises and noise from increased policing.

Mr Adekele gave assurances there would not be drug use or violence.

His representative said music would not be played after 11pm, a lack of police resources police not the responsibility of his client, and while the police claimed a saturation of late night venues in Sutton town centre, a saturation policy was not in place.

The committee decided to turn down the application. Mr Adeleke can now appeal, or submit a revised application.

Councillor Richard Clifton, Sutton South ward councillor, said: "This was an issue that united local people.

"There was a great deal of concern that this club was applying to open virtually around the clock in what is a residential area."