A SECOND town centre takeaway was likely to be granted a late licence, despite objections from police.

Members of Redditch Council's licensing sub-committee were last night due to decide whether to allow the Britannia Fish Bar on Unicorn Hill to extend its opening hours.

Police were against the application on the grounds it would increase alcohol-related crime.

The meeting had already been postponed from November 25 to give police time to compile its report.

The Unicorn Hill takeaway wants to extend its trading hours until 3am from Thursday to Saturday, and until 2am on Sunday.

But the .

However, councillors have already agreed to allow the nearby Fisherman's Catch a late licence, despite police submitting a similar report.

The report on the Britannia Fish Bar stated that 215 offences had been recorded between June 1, 2004 and May 31, 2005.

Pc Joanne Plimmer said: "I do firmly believe that if the Britannia Fish Bar and the Fisherman's Catch open later than they do now the violent crime statistics will go through the roof."

Pc Caroline Oliver added: "I think that both the chip shops do play a big part in the town centre regarding the problems on Unicorn Hill."

The police have stated that they would prefer the premises to shut at midnight.

No one was available from the police or the council to comment before the hearing.