An application to open the McDonald’s burger joint in Hoxton around the clock has been thrown out by licensing chiefs.

The controversial bid to open the fast-food chain’s City Road branch virtually 24 hours, from 6am to 5am, for a year’s trial period, was rejected by Hackney Council’s licensing committee on Tuesday night.

McDonald’s franchisee, Amir Atefi, who currently opens from 5am to 2am every day, claimed an extension of its hours would create 25 jobs, and offer a “convenient choice for customers who are increasingly living outside of the nine-to-five routine”.

“We value the community in which we operate and my main priority is to be a good and responsible neighbour,” he said.

“The team at our City Road branch regularly meet with the local police to minimise anti-social incidents, complete at least two litter patrols a day and work in partnership with local organisations, helping those who are unemployed in the area to find work.”

But the council received 16 letters of objection from nearby residents and councillors, who complained they would be impacted by even more late night noise, litter, traffic and anti-social behaviour should the hours increase.

Nearby resident and father-of-two Xavier Perkins spoke against the application at the licencing meeting, arguing the trading hours should actually be decreased to 10pm closing and 6am opening.

“I have personally witnessed police arrests of minors in the car park due to gang or drug related events during the day – this can only be added to with near 24 hour trading,” he said.

“Extended hours would lead to a constant flow of cars and traffic, with extensive increases in additional packaging, napkins, and rubbish being scattered on local roads, pavements and parks.”

He continued: “Allowing a proposed 12 month trial period – even with police support – is unacceptable. I do not wish to be part of a social trial because of McDonalds’ greed and suffer the direct risk and consequences of this decision.

“If the McDonalds corporation truly cares about its environment it could use its real estate to far greater good and hold a weekly farmers markets in their car park – to promote healthy eating and sustainable food production.”

Cllr Carole Williams also stepped into the debate, stating: “As one of the ward councillors I have received numerous complaints about noise, anti-social behaviour, litter and cooking related smells which the owners of the business seem to be unwilling or unable to do anything about.

“Twenty-four hours of non-stop service in a residential area is excessive even for a city that reputedly doesn’t sleep.”