A McDonald's restaurant has provoked outrage over an application to open around the clock in Ealing.

Community groups have written letters of objection to Ealing Council stating their concern that the extension of the licence will see an increase in crime, anti-social-behaviour, noise and litter.

The McDonald's in question is located inside The Arcadia Centre, Ealing Broadway, which is subject to a 'special area policy' which was introduced due to the high level of violent incidents. There have been a number of thefts and assaults in the area and it is close to several bars and clubs that close in the early hours.

Robert Gurd of the Ealing Civic Society, said: "We oppose the application for a late night refreshment licence for these premises. This licence is incompatible with the residential nature of the area which is already affected by noise and nuisance from people congregating in the street."

Julian Edmonds from Central Ealing Residents Association added: "The application for 24/7 opening would run counter to the council's policies in relation to the Special Area and also Core Hours. The Licensing Act's objectives to prevent crime, disorder and public nuisance are best achieved by encouraging prompt homeward dispersals of customers."

The application is to be considered at a planning meeting at Ealing Town Hall on Wednesday night.

Patrick Chapman, on behalf of Walpole Residents Association, is also objecting. He said: "Fundamentally the application does not give any indication of how the operators will prevent a negative impact on the town centre. The centre of Ealing is mixed residential and commercial and so applications of this nature are contrary to the council's prevention of public nuisance."

The Met has told the council that two door staff should be employed from 11pm and colour 'identification quality' CCTV available to cover the inside and outside of the premises as a condition of granting permission.

A police representative said: "The likely impact of granting a 24 hour licence would be the retention of alcohol fuelled customers in the area. The likelihood is that patrons will stay within the town centre for longer periods and the potential for crime and disorder, antisocial behaviour and noise nuisances will greatly increase."

The current opening hours are Sunday to Thursday close of 11pm to midnight with Friday to Saturday nights closing between 11pm and 1am.

McDonald's has been contacted for comment.