Halo nightclub has been criticised for plans to expand, with officials warning students using the 24-hour library next door would be ‘intimidated’ by clubbers.

A planning application to extend opening hours from 3.30am to 6am, as well as adding two outdoor bars to the club, has been opposed by the University, Police and environmental health workers.

In an objection notice, the University’s solicitors explained, ‘We are concerned that students wishing to use the new library during the night may feel unsafe or intimidated by users of the club’.

The £27.5m Laidlaw Library, which is due to open in spring 2015, is situated next to Halo.

The University’s statement also touched on the ‘large number of crimes taking place in Halo’.

Leeds City Council reported 52 thefts, 14 assaults, seven drunk and disorderly arrests and three sexual assaults at the club in the past year.

West Yorkshire Police’s licensing officer, Cat Sanderson said, ‘The premises need to be able to control their venue and customers within their current hours of operating before applying for additional hours’.

She added, ‘Currently, I have no confidence that they are able to do this’.

The University’s Vice Chancellor has previously addressed concerns about the decision to open the Laidlaw Library next to a nightclub. Speaking about Halo, he told The Gryphon, ‘I think it is a facility that could be used for other purposes’.

Halo’s planning application is to be reviewed by the Council later this month.

Charlotte Mason