REVELLERS in Chester now have another option for late night partying at the weekend – The Commercial Hotel.

The revamped bar and restaurant off Northgate Street has had its licence extended until 3am on Fridays and Saturdays, giving customers an extra hour to finish their drinks. On Chester race days and bank holidays, this will be extended until 4am.

In addition, customers are now allowed to remain outside in St Peters Churchyard, until 2am on Fridays and Saturdays, extended from 11pm.

Cheshire West and Chester Council licensing officer Guy Morris said: “ The Commercial has become very successful and a lot of people are going there.

“People want to stay outside and enjoy their drinks. As a council we are promoting that in our city.”

The extended licensing hours were opposed by some neighbours.

Debbie Bowden, of Bridge Street Rows, said she is disturbed by people leaving bars and waiting for taxis.

She added: “If they granted the licence it would have an effect on my ability to sleep as it would increase the amount of people coming down Bridge Street.”

Miss Bowden was disappointed by the verdict. She said: “I think it was pretty obvious that it was going to happen. It’s just a matter of finding somewhere else to live now.”

The city centre hotel agreed to put up signs telling customers to leave quietly.