A BID to open a new takeaway in Bournemouth’s clubbing district is being opposed by police, who fear it could undermine efforts to reduce violent crime.

Plans for a ‘Smokin Rooster’ restaurant and takeaway in Old Christchurch Road could prove a “potential flashpoint location” in Bournemouth, police claim.

Applicants Nasar and Yaser Iqbal want to turn a vacant restaurant unit into a chicken-based restaurant and takeaway that would be open until 5am seven days a week.

They stress they do not intend to sell alcohol and say the introduction of a new restaurant in the area could have a positive impact on Old Christchurch Road.

But PC Simon Bice, of Operation Protect, has written to the council to say the proposed establishment could jeopardise their efforts to improve the area.

Old Christchurch Road is currently the subject of a road improvement scheme, which will include night-time road closures and the relocation of taxi ranks.

His representation said: “Attempts should be made to control the opening of further licensed premises within designated areas within the overall aim of influencing a reduction or stabilisation in violent crime within the area.

“With this in mind the above premises is located within a ‘stress area’ – takeaways tend to become flash points for violence and disorder and a meeting point where groups congregate.

“As previously mentioned the new road layout is an attempt to avoid flashpoints and to reduce violent crime – agreeing to this premises licence in its current format would be potentially agreeing to another potential flashpoint location.”

The application will be considered by Bournemouth’s licensing committee on Tuesday, May 27.

The applicants declined an invitation to comment.