Neighbours are celebrating after magistrates threw out an application for a drinks licence at a new night club.

The club's future was today in question - applicants Po Na Na had planned to invest £1.5 million in the venue at the Aquarium Terraces on Brighton seafront.

Neighbours told licensing justices during a two-day hearing there had been a major increase in crime and disorder in the area and another large club would increase their misery.

Po Na Na, which operates more than 50 clubs and bars around the country, applied for an alcohol licence until 2am and a special hours certificate.

The city council had already granted the company a provisional public entertainments licence until 3am, restricting the number of clubbers to 1,000.

Police and residents' groups said there could be an increase in drunkenness, criminal damage, noise and nuisance.

Police were concerned at the impact of another large late-night venue in an area of the city which already has about eight clubs.

Magistrates said they took into consideration the views of the residents, who told the court they have to cope with people vomiting and urinating outside their homes and expressed concern about an increase in assaults.

Magistrates said the area was predominantly residential and children, working people and the elderly were entitled to a good night's sleep.

Magistrate Mike Harris said the licensing justices knew there had been significant changes in the area.

He added: "We believe each person has a right to the comfort, convenience and enjoyment of his own home."

Dr Janie Thomas, who represented the Kingscliffe Society, said: "I am absolutely delighted. At last somebody has listened to us.

"We have established now this is a residential area and our quality of life has gone down and down."

Trevor Scoble, who represented the Return the Aquarium Terraces Group and the St James's Area Action Group, said: "It is the best bit of news for some time."

Police licensing officer Kareen Plympton said: "The police are satisfied with the outcome."

Po Na Na's commercial project manager Steve Thick said the company would decide its future involvement over the next few weeks.

He said: "The company will review its position in its approach to the entire project."