A new kebab shop will open in Oxford city centre despite disorder warnings from police.

Oxford City Council members gave permission for the Mediterranean and Turkish restaurant and takeaway in Park End Street.

Police had warned the plan for the former Eat As Much As You Like Chinese restaurant, pictured, would be a “honeypot” for “intoxicated, rowdy and potentially disruptive” revellers.

Officers warned councillors there was a “high level of crime and disorder incidents” with 2,000 people spilling on to the street from local clubs at 2am.

City councillor Saj Malik, speaking as in his capacity as a business partner in the scheme, told the west area planning committee on Wednesday that the Bodrum Kebab House in Cowley Road, whose owners are also partners in the scheme, had been open for 23 years without incident.

He added: “I think our record on community safety speaks for itself. Not once have the police been called.”

Committee member Colin Cook said: “I lived on Park End Street for 12 years. It was so bad at the end of it, I had to move out.

“It is important we move people away from that area and this will not help in achieving that.”

The shop wanted to open until 3am, but councillors imposed a 1am limit.

Liaqat Hussein, who runs Harry’s Grill kebab van outside the Living Room in New Road, said the plan would put him out of business. He added: “I’m only opening two days a week now.”

Mr Malik told the Oxford Mail he “seriously disagreed” with the police’s concerns.

The Cowley Marsh councillor said: “They should target the licensed outlets that are selling the alcohol. Food helps them sober up rather than be more drunk. My venue is alcohol free.”

He pledged up to four door staff.

Mr Malik will still need a late refreshment licence from the council to provide takeaway food after 11pm.