A LICENCE is being sought for a new Chinese restaurant on Bournemouth's cliffs.

Southcoast Bay View Ltd is seeking a licence for the supply of alcohol until 11pm every day for the site in Beacon Road, West Cliff, the location of the former Ocean Palace restaurant and now part of Taylor Wimpey's 'Coast' flats development.

The restaurant would seat 180 patrons.

Its application states: "What it has to offer patrons is a convivial atmosphere in which to enjoy a well-cooked meal.

"It is likely to attract locals as well as visitors to the borough, including holiday-makers and day-visitors.

"It is adjacent to the BIC thus permitting attendees to have a convenient location for a meal.

"Additionally, the surrounding hotels will contain visitors to Bournemouth who are looking for a good value restaurant in which to enjoy an evening out."

Council policy presumes against granting new alcohol licences within the town centre in a bid to cut down on crime and antisocial behaviour, but Southcoast argues the restaurant will only be replacing a similar business on the site.