A NEW late-night restaurant could have a “gently civilising effect” on one of Bournemouth’s trouble hotspots, it has been claimed.

Smokin’ Rooster was granted a licence to open a chicken restaurant in Old Christchurch Road, despite police fears it could undermine efforts to reduce crime and disorder in the area.

The restaurant will be open until 5am seven days a week and will not serve alcohol.

Cllr Andrew Morgan, the chair of Bournemouth’s licensing board, said they had confidence in the operators, who already run a Smokin’ Rooster takeaway in Poole.

“We felt it was a very well-run business which is going to offer more consumer choice in Old Christchurch Road,” he said.

“We felt they could add to the vibrancy of the night-time economy and have a gently civilising effect on that part of town.”

Owner Yaser Iqbal, who lives in Poole, told the Echo: “Our restaurant will be selling healthy, good quality food, offering a real alternative to young people.

“When you go out late there is not that much choice, especially if you want to eat in and have good quality food.

“We are going to offer something new.”

He said they would be employing local people and would work with the police and other authorities.

“We want to make a sustainable difference to Bournemouth high street,” he said.

“I’ve got a lot of respect for the police and we want to work with them going forward.”

The restaurant is set to open in the next two to three months.