AN OXFORD nightclub could have time called on its late licence.

The Bridge, in Hythe Bridge Street, has been under the scrutiny of police licensing officers for 18 months, following a string of minor incidents in the club and outside.

Thames Valley Police have now called for the venue’s licence to be reviewed by Oxford City Council.

Force licensing officer Alex Bloomfield said the decision was made after an assault in the club on Halloween.

Police are to ask the city council for the club’s opening hours to be curtailed.

Currently it can stay open until 3am at weekends.

Mr Bloomfield said there had been issues with anti-social behaviour, public nuisance and minor disorder at or outside the venue.

He said the problems had not decreased, despite several meetings with the club’s management.

He said: “We have met them, and the council, and explored various avenues.”

He added: “The Bridge have always been willing to work with us, and have implemented everything we have suggested. They are very much on board.”

But he said there was only so much that could be done by the management team and that a fresh look at licensing conditions was needed.

Mr Bloomfield said the police’s aim was to ensure the venue could continue to operate as a successful business, that nearby residents were not disturbed and that any potential trouble was curbed.

He added: “The licensing committee is there to take both sides into account and weigh up what’s best.”

Mr Bloomfield said: “We have not asked for revocation of the licence. We have asked the committee to look at (licensing) hours and whether reconditioning the licence and the hours may be appropriate, given the problems that are occurring.”

Bridge general manager and licensee Phil Davidson said he was disappointed police had called for the review.

But he added: “The management of the Bridge will continue to work with the authorities to provide a safe and well-managed venue that supports the licensing objectives.

“We’re determined that a tiny minority that cause trouble should not spoil the peace and enjoyment of others.”

The council’s licensing committee will hold a special meeting on Wednesday, January 12, to review the licence.