Controversial nightclub Funky Mojoe is to challenge a landmark High Court ruling which restricted its opening hours.

Owners of the venue in High Road, South Woodford, today confirmed an application has been lodged with the Court of Appeal.

Last month, Funky Mojoe lost a High Court challenge to overturn a decision by Redbridge Council to cut its opening hours due to crime and anti-social behaviour.

It was the first time the High Court had ruled on a nightclub’s opening hours.

The nightclub did not request a right to appeal during the hearing, so one was not granted. But owners have decided to continue their expensive legal challenge after failing to get a judicial review.

The High Court has ordered the nightclub to pay the council’s legal costs of £127,000.

Ian Bond, deputy leader of Redbridge Council, said: “We found out this morning that Funky Mojoe had applied to the Court of Appeal for permission to appeal the High Court's decision.

“This has come as a surprise and we are really disappointed. This is a last throw of the dice by them and the council will be opposing any appeal if the application is accepted.”

Kerry O’Riley, Director of Funky Mojoe, confirmed they had lodged an application for permission to appeal to the Court of Appeal.

She said: “The situation is very upsetting. It is important to keep 52 people in their jobs, and that is what we are fighting this for. The area needs this venue and it helps other local businesses to grow.”

The Guardian has asked Funky Mojoe’s legal representatives for clarification on what grounds they are appealing on.