Traders and residents say a late-night bar complex is putting too much pressure on their neighbourhood.

They are angry magistrates granted late-night licences to night spots in East Street, Brighton, even though the establishments did not initially have planning permission to stay open past 11pm.

They say that, since the old ABC cinema was redeveloped, there has been an increase in problems in the street and some residents are now considering moving.

Some say problems have got a lot worse since the new complex opened its doors last year.

The old cinema is home to the Santa Fe restaurant, Po Na Na nightclub and The Toad pub, which began opening late at Easter.

Although there has been criticism levelled at The Toad, manager Ronan McCann said his bar was being given a bad name.

He said: "We run a well-managed establishment and there are very few problems in East Street.

"Brighton is an exciting place but it seems some of the people here aren't up to it."

Resident Trevor Scoble said: "There is too much pressure on the area since The Toad opened.

"We are also upset the pub was originally only given a licence until 11pm and now it is open much later."

Trader Mike McDonnell, who runs Time Out cafe near the complex, said: "We have had more trouble down here since Easter.

"The atmosphere here changes at around 9pm and it goes through until the early hours.

"On a Friday and Saturday I just get out of here. Twice since Easter I have had windows smashed.

"We were astounded when the late licence was granted. It has made me think twice about my whole business and I have been here for 13 years."

Howard Trevette, who runs Pool Valley coach station, said: "This is leading to crime and disorder.

"I know of at least one person who lives nearby who has had enough and is looking to move."

A spokeswoman for Brighton and Hove City Council said full planning permission for late opening had not been officially granted.

She said: "There are four units on this site, one of which is The Toad pub.

"Planning permission for the final closing time has been agreed in principle but it is subject to the submission of a site management agreement. That is yet to be received but we are expecting it very soon.

"We do not have any complaints at the moment about the pub but if anyone is concerned they can contact environmental health and licensing."

She said the bar had a licence allowing it to stay open until 2am.

Mr McCann said: "All we have done is open a quality establishment. We don't have any problems.

"We cater to a slightly older clientele than the bars on West Street and we have a very strict door policy."

He said CCTV cameras provided by The Toad had helped reduce crime.