A CITY centre Greek restaurant has had its application to be open into the early hours granted.

As previously reported, Yiayias Kitchen Winchester, on St George’s Street, applied to add 'licensable activities', which could be held on any day of the week, from 11pm to 3am the next day.

At the licensing committee Yiayais owner and applicant Paul Pyrgoudes said that the business would be open only to serve takeaway food. He also confirmed that the shop will not be offering sit-in dining during the expanded hours.

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He said: “It will be for food only. There will be no alcohol sales on the premises.

“We will move the tables and chairs to one side so people can’t sit in. We will also make sure that the outside area is clear so people cannot wait there, and take any outside tables and chairs inside so they cannot be used.”

Hampshire Chronicle: The licensing sub-committee meetingThe licensing sub-committee meeting (Image: Newsquest)He continued: “It will be a way for us to use the delivery channels to open up a new revenue.”

Mr Pyrgoudes also said that he would ensure that Security Industry Authority licensed doormen will be employed to watch over the property during the late opening hours, saying he wants to make sure it is safe for his staff.

Catherine Brandwood, director of wine seller Toscanaccio in Parchment Street, objected to the application, citing fears that the expanded opening hours could lead to increased crime or disorderly behaviour.

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In a statement read by a council officer, Ms Brandwood said: “The business is set back from the road and is in a dark area. St George’s Street is not well lit, like the High Street or Jewry Street, and is not served by CCTV. These issues mean that when there are problems they are harder to detect.

“I feel the hours should mirror Papa John’s and allow delivery only after 1am. To allow otherwise does not only impact the residents of St George’s Street and Parchment Street but sets a dangerous precedent for permitting further opening hours, extensions to further businesses nearby.”

The committee approved the application, with conditions that there would be no dine-in eating at the premises after 11pm any night of the week, and that the business is only open on Sunday nights until 11pm, apart from on bank holidays.

The decision was made at the Licensing Sub-committee on Friday, January 19.