There will be a public outcry when late-night drinking comes into force this autumn, critics have predicted.

Green councillors on Brighton and Hove City Council warned extended pub trading hours, due to start on November 24, will cause serious problems for residential neighbourhoods.

Councillor Keith Taylor said: "So far the majority of residents are unaware many city centre pubs will be serving alcohol later - some up to 2am.

"While this may not cause too much disturbance in commercial areas, in neighbourhoods such as North Laine and Hanover there could be real problems."

Of the 1,000 licensed premises in the city, applications have been received from more than 900. Coun Taylor said: "The power to grant extended licences has been taken away from the courts and given to the council. But Greens believe the Government's consultation guidelines have been ineffective. Many who will be directly affected by longer opening hours appear not to know anything about applications or how to lodge objections.

"Green councillors' post bags have been overflowing with letters from worried residents seeking guidance on how to go about lodging their concerns."

The Green Party has launched its own information campaign to directly notify residents about licensing applications in central areas.

Coun Taylor said: "We are generally supportive of liberalising the licensing laws where doing so will enhance people's access to leisure facilities. But this must not be at the cost of quality of life or add to the police's already heavy responsibilities."