Students at the University of Reading could be set to drink in common rooms and dining rooms until midnight if plans are approved.

The University of Reading currently has a licence to serve alcohol at its ‘Northcourt group’ of buildings until 1am.

The Northcourt group includes St Patrick’s Hall, Sherfield Hall, Benyon Hall, Creighton Court and the Northcourt Houses.

Now, the University has applied to change the licence so students and staff can drink alcohol at the dining room and old common room in St Patrick’s Hall.

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A licence application has been submitted to Reading Borough Council to allow the sale of alcohol in these rooms from 10am to midnight each day.

It is part of a wider project to upgrade catering and social spaces in St Patrick’s Hall.

According to a spokesperson for the university, the old common room is set to be turned into a café and bar area, to  create a lounge-type environment where h students can study, meet friends and socialise and  get a snack, coffee or alcoholic drink.

They added that they want to create a relaxed and intimate venue, which would reduce the need for students to go elsewhere. 

The dining room would close at its usual time of 9pm.

All the changes to the building would be internal, with no building works necessary.

The spokesperson said: “These changes are part of ongoing work to provide excellent facilities and services to students across our campuses.

“The University is committed to being a responsible neighbour, and has listened to the views of students and local residents to ensure the best outcome for the community as a whole.”

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The spokesperson added that there is no plan for live music or sports events, and that it has consulted neighbours about the changes coming to St Patrick’s Hall.

Anyone who wishes to make a representation can do so by emailing Reading Borough Council’s licensing team at licensing@reading.gov.uk.

The deadline for responses is Monday, February 28.