RESIDENTS say anti-social behaviour is getting worse in Christchurch - with a public meeting planned to discuss the issues.

A meeting of Christchurch Citizens Association last week heard a range of concerns from traders, residents and visitors about the impact some elements of the night-time economy were having on the town.

The discussion came just days before a council meeting where permission was given for town centre bar Soho to open later, until 3am.

Just a few weeks ago, business owners blocked the Church Street public footpath under the archway after a large pool of vomit was left by a reveller the night before.

Sue Bungey, chairman of the CCA, said: "We have given our support to this public meeting regarding the anti-social behaviour around the town at night.

"Until recently, I was not aware of the depth of feelings within the town to this and how bad it has got.

"We had hoped the licensing committee would listen to these concerns and refuse the opening hours extension to Soho, but they didn't.

"We are disappointed, of course, and we were surprised the police allowed this without comment. But we know these problems are more general and we will look ahead to the public meeting and take it from there."

Members of the licensing committee said there wasn't enough evidence to suggest the later opening time would be a problem.

Committee chairman Cllr Nick Geary said should residents encounter examples of antisocial behaviour they should be reported to police as "they will be recorded and the licensing board will see that".

Soho owner Christopher Rice told the Echo the later licence would end the current practice of ejecting all their patrons in one go "when we get to closing time and we're having a good evening".

He also defended his firm's record for preventing antisocial behaviour and showing respect to residents.

The meeting will take place on April 26 at 7pm in Christchurch Priory.