LANDLORDS of rowdy pubs are facing surprise night-time visits from city councillors.

Edinburgh's licensing chief, Marjorie Thomas, today unveiled plans to check up on bars or clubs at the centre of complaints from neighbours.

The licensing board regularly handles applications for late licences beyond 11pm, but concerns are often raised by local residents about potential noise or disturbance.

Councillor Thomas said the new initiative would allow councillors to make decisions based on their own experiences, rather than from reports debated within the confines of the City Chambers.

"I often feel we tend to be on a pedestal, and we don't see what's happening on the ground as much as we should," she said.

"Years ago, councillors went on a walk-around in the Grassmarket because there were a lot of issues about drinking, but nothing has happened since then. Although this idea is just at an embryonic stage, I envisage us going round a number of pubs unannounced on Friday nights, perhaps around midnight.

"Particularly, I would like to visit premises that we have granted a late licence to, but have attracted public objections. This well help us to judge the situation for ourselves.

"We are not disputing what residents are saying, but everyone has different perceptions.

"We would probably stay in the pub for around half-an-hour, and perhaps sit down with a coke. Pubs and clubs that have nothing to hide have nothing to fear."

Cllr Thomas said board visits could also take place during the day, mainly to assess the surrounding area and give councillors a clear idea of the location of premises applying for a licence.

The night-time visits are likely to take place three or four times a year, incorporating around five pubs on each visit, with the politicians travelling around the city by car.

The small team of councillors is likely to be accompanied by plain-clothed police officers, and although the visits will be unannounced, bar staff will be alerted to their presence.

The board could even turn up at nightclubs, lap-dancing bars or other venues that have been causing concern.

At a licensing board meeting earlier this week, applications to extend opening hours at 215 pubs, clubs and other venues were assessed by councillors.

The Village Inn in Davidson's Mains lost its bid to open until 1am after local residents complained of drunken behaviour.

But a number of other venues, including the Telford Arms, Amicus Apple on Frederick Street and the Victoria Park Hotel on Ferry Road were all successful, despite public objections.

These are the kind of venues likely to be visited by licensing board members.

A police spokesman said: "The convener of the licensing committee is keen for board members to get an opportunity to view first hand the operation and management of licensed premises within the city centre area, and the impact licensing and licensing policy has on local communities.

"The chief constable fully supports this position and is happy to facilitate these visits."

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