AN application for a Thurrock restaurant to stay open past midnight has attracted a raft of objections from residents and councillors.

The Kara Lounge and Grill in Fleming Road, Chafford Hundred currently opens at 12noon and shuts no later than midnight but a licensing application seeks to change this to 11am to 1am on Fridays and Saturdays.

The venue also wants to provide performances of dance, live music, recorded music, late night refreshment and the supply of alcohol for consumption on and off the premises.

The council received a number of objections from councillors, including Val Morris-Cook, Labour councillor for Grays Riverside, who said: "I would challenge the current licence provisions requests for Kara Lounge as there is a great deal of unrest with the residents due to the parking of vehicles which block in residents; loud noise from the premises after hours and the number of cars which appear to be parked with no thought to how any residents will pass let alone be able to park In their specific parking spots."

Deputy mayor Sue Shinnick added: "As residents of the surrounding community, our lives have already been heavily impacted by the noise, music, and bright lights emanating from the restaurant, particularly from the parking lot.

"Despite multiple complaints, the disturbances continue, and the prospect of increased activity is distressing for all of us. Currently, we are unable to keep our windows open due to the constant noise and smoke coming from Kara, which already disrupts our ability to enjoy peace in our homes."

Vikki Hartstean, Labour councillor for Chafford and North Stifford, and Gary Watson, Labour councillor for South Chafford have also lodged objections to the application, which will be considered by a licensing committee on Thursday.

An unnamed resident who said they were battling cancer, said: " As a resident living directly across from the restaurant, I feel compelled to express my serious concerns regarding the impact this change would have on my family and the local community.

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"As a cancer patient currently undergoing chemotherapy, my health requires a peaceful environment for rest and recovery. Unfortunately, the existing noise levels from the restaurant have already begun to significantly affect my quality of life. The constant disturbances—ranging from loud music, shouting, and rowdy behaviour to car honking and fights, often extend well into early hours, making it exceedingly difficult for me to sleep."