A NEW bistro has celebrated its grand opening after being granted permission to serve alcohol.

A licensing review was held after residents shared fears of noise troubles from the new Ingleby Café Bistro, on Beckfields Avenue. 

But Stockton councillors gave the new estate restaurant the thumbs up to serve drinks ahead of its grand opening on Monday.

A total of £300,000 has been pumped into the refit at the former bookies and dog parlour – including £48,000 on its new kitchen.

Noise worries mainly came from residents in nearby Thorington Gardens after a licensing application was lodged.

But committee members heard how music had been removed from the bid – with council officers finding noise levels would be controlled following surveys. 

“While we were there, we set the noise to the highest level and went outside over the road to properties on Thorington Gardens,” said officer Michael Fearman. 

“At that time, with the music on full volume, it was only just audible.

“It wouldn’t be at a level which would cause disturbance or nuisance.”

A decision report released by Stockton Council showed councillors were convinced conditions agreed with Cleveland Police and environmental health teams would address concerns – ruling that the venue would be run in a responsible manner. 

The new restaurant also saw its request for restrictions on toughened glass wine glasses eased by the panel. 

Manager Matthew Moore-Hamilton was very pleased with the result.

He added: “We were really happy – we want to work with everyone and we were over the moon it got granted.”

The new venue features breakfast, lunch and evening menus with pasta, pizza and steak all featuring. 

Mr Moore-Hamilton said there’d been a number of people popping in and looking through the windows asking when they would open.

He added: “We want to take it slow and get everything right first – we’re excited. 

“It’s a modern British menu with a bit of Italian and some classic food with our twist. 

“Hopefully people will have a lovely time.”