A cocktail bar in Southampton wants to stay open later.

AVA’S in Oxford Street is seeking permission from the city council for a “small extension” to its operating hours.

The venue already has sign off from council planners to open until midnight every day of the week.

Designated premises supervisor Sebastien Bousson has applied to vary the bar’s licence for the sale of alcohol and playing of music to match this.

As part of the application he has offered to commit to having at least one member Security Industry Authority (SIA) registered staff on duty at the venue from 8pm until closing on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.

Mr Bousson has also pledged to be an active member of any local Pub Watch initiative that is recognised by police.

Alongside a wide range of cocktails and other drinks, the venue offers a sushi menu and afternoon tea.

The application is set to be discussed at a licensing sub-committee meeting on Thursday, March 21, after two residents submitted objections.

Both representations said Oxford Road was recently designated as a “stress area” by the council.

One of the objectors said the existing operating hours at AVA’S was “more than adequate”, adding that “further hospitality-related activity would be the straw that breaks the camel’s back”.

A report published ahead of the sub-committee meeting said no concerns were raised by any of the responsible authorities.

The police licensing team found the requested variation to be satisfactory, the report added.

AVA’S has been approached for comment.