A RESTAURANT and bar in South Woodford has applied to extend its opening until 12.45am during the week and 1.45am on Friday and Saturday.

Red Mantra, in George Lane, recently took over the premises from Tuus, which closed down in 2009, and manager Dip Patel said the restaurant can often attract customers until midnight.

He said: “We've been open about two-and-a-half months and over the festive period, we had a temporary licence.

“From a business perspective, we thought it would be worth extending the hours.”

He said the Indian tapas bar tended to attract a slightly older clientele, who wanted a quieter night out.

Mr Patel said: “They're more mature, looking for somewhere without so many youngsters around.”

The business opened amid rumours the premises could become anything from a mosque to a community centre and is one of several upmarket restaurants in the area.

Under the proposed new hours, Red Mantra would be open until 12.45am, Sunday to Thursday, and 1.45am on Friday and Saturday.

Licence holder Amit Kundra is also applying to extend the sale of alcohol until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays and has also requested to be allowed to host live music nights.

He is also hoping to remain open until 1am on Sundays preceding Bank Holidays and to be allowed to play music until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays.

To look at the application in full, visit Redbridge Town Hall or visit redbridge.gov.uk/cms/business/licences Views on the proposals must be submitted to the council by February 3.

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