Management representing Hope Street's independent Philharmonic Hotel have strongly hit back at local criticisms regarding their upcoming council licensing bid. Following public objections from ward councillors warning that a 5 am alcohol application could bring "24-hour outdoor drinking" to the historic corridor, hotel chiefs clarified that the request strictly covers standard internal room service for their 20 guest bedrooms. Outlining a flawless two-year trading track record with no police objections, owners expressed confidence ahead of the official sub-committee hearing at Liverpool Town Hall.