The owner of a restaurant set to open in three weeks' time has defended his application to remain open until beyond 1am at the weekend.

Councillors and those living near to the Manor House restaurant, in Wanstead High Street, have raised concerns about noise and anti-social behaviour from the new restaurant late at night.

But owner Anthony Mark Foster, 40, who has lived in Wanstead for eight years, said he was 'surprised' by the reaction to his application.

Mr Foster, who sold his flat in Hermon Hill, Wanstead, to get his business up and running, said: "I do understand local businesses and residents' concerns, I can empathise with them but their concern comes from a lack of understanding.

“There’s no loud music, no underage drinking, it’s a gastro pub. The late licence is just for busy people who don’t want to be rushed out at 11pm. It avoids people all leaving at once which can cause problems."

Manta Barekh, 30, who lives in manor House Gardens, said: “It would be too much. It affects our privacy”. 

One resident, who did not wish to be named, said a formal letter of complaint had been sent to Redbridge council voicing opposition.

“The noise will be a problem. We researched other businesses in the area to see when they close and we would support an earlier closure, but 1am is too late,” she said.

Mr Foster has applied for the restaurant to serve alcohol until 12.30am and to remain open until 1.15am.

A decision on the application will be made by Redbridge council's licensing committee on Tuesday morning.