COUNCILLORS aren't lovin' the idea of McDonald's in Bournemouth town centre being open 24 hours a day.

Owners of the fast food chain in Old Christchurch Road have submitted plans to Bournemouth Borough Council to extend their licensing hours to 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Currently the restaurant is open from 6am to 11pm Monday to Sunday.

But local councillors are less than happy at the prospect of another town centre premises being open until the very early hours of the morning.

Bournemouth Borough Councillor Robert Chapman said: "We seem to be receiving a number of licensing applications for trading to 4am or 5am and even for 24 hours.

"Without being a killjoy I do not feel that these hours are really necessary or even desirable.”

Sandwich chain Subway, which is also located in Old Christchurch Road, already has a 24 hour licence except for Sunday when it is open 7am to 10pm.

And Mega Kebab House, which is further up Old Christchurch Road towards the Lansdowne roundabout, opens from 11am to 4am Monday to Sunday.

"The council is encouraging developers to bring more residential units into the town centre area,” added Cllr Chapman.

“And although not directly opposite McDonald's we have proposals for apartments adjacent to the restaurant and even more in Post Office Road.

"Surely these residents are entitled to an undisturbed night’s sleep?"

A McDonald’s spokesman said: “We can confirm that we have submitted plans to extend the opening hours of our Old Christchurch Road restaurant.

“If approved, the changes will mean we are able to provide a convenient choice for our customers 24 hours a day.

“We continue to work with Bournemouth council and the local police on our plans.”

Anyone who wishes to make a representation in relation to the application has until Tuesday, January 5.

Representations must be made in writing and sent to: The Licensing Authority, Bournemouth Borough Council, St Stephens Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH2 6EB.