COUNCILLORS are yet to reach a decision after nearly six hours locked in talks with residents and developers over the fate of a controversial underground bar near an affluent residential estate.

Members of Redbridge Council's licensing sub-committee are currently considering whether to grant permission for the opening of the Vault Bar, in The Broadway, Woodford Green.

Dozens of residents submitted objections to the bar opening, citing the risk of anti-social and drunken behaviour, crime and increasing parking problems in the area as reasons why the bar should not open.

More than 100 people signed a petition arranged by community organiser Geoff Seef in an effort to demonstrate the strength of their feeling against the bar.

Co-owner Peter Southgate responded by saying that the bar would be attracting an older crowd, who would visit the bar for fine wine and dining, and would not harm the peace and quiet of the neighbourhood.

He also argued that his other business interests in the area would be jeopardised by any negative impact in the parade of shops and offices, near Woodford tube station.

Keep checking this Guardian Series website for the outcome of the meeting.