A RESIDENTS' group has applied for a formal role at the public inquiry into whether Winchester's first nightclub should be built.

The Preserve Winchester Group wants to represent the hundreds of locals who oppose it. They believe converting the old postal sorting office in Tanner Street into a 1,500 capacity club would blight their lives with antisocial behaviour and noise.

Winchester City Council turned down Karma Ltd's revised application for the late-night venue in March but the company has now appealed and a public inquiry will be held next year.

Campaigners have written to the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister to grant them special status.

It would give the group the right to speak at the inquiry, call expert witnesses and cross-examine anyone called by the developers.They would have access to copies of documents filed by Karma Ltd and Winchester City Council during the written phase of the appeal.

It would also allow members to submit written statements to counter any arguments made by Karma Ltd in support of its appeal.

Leading campaigner, Dr Chong-Yee Khoo, said: "This is a matter of grave concern to many residents of Winchester, particularly the elderly.

We now have an opportunity to take an active role in the appeal and public inquiry, and we look forward to representing the interests of the city in the best way possible."

All letters of objection must be sent to the Planning Inspectorate by September 2. They should be sent in triplicate to The Case Officer (APP/L1765/A/04/1155582), The Planning Inspectorate, Room 3/04B, Kite Wing, Temple Quay House, 2 The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol BS1 6PN.