One of the most powerful courts in the country will have the last say in the ongoing battle between Redbridge Council and a South Woodford night club later this month.

A High Court judgement on Funky Mojoe’s opening hours and licensing conditions is expected on February 18.

The council slashed the club’s opening hours last year after a licensing hearing heard that noise and anti-social behaviour from revellers was disturbing nearby residents.

Management failed their first appeal to overturn the decision at Barkingside Magistrates’ Court in November.

Cllr Richard Hoskins, who was in court for the five day hearing, said some residents had tears in their eyes when the verdict was delivered.

He thought the five-year saga was “finally over” but an appeal with the High Court was then lodged.

It delayed the impact of the council’s ruling, letting Funky Mojoe operate extended hours through the festive period and at weekends.

The club, in High Road, is well-known for its appearances on reality show The Only Way Is Essex and has been supported in its dispute with the council by some of the show’s stars.

If the High Court rules against the club, it will have to operate new opening hours – serving until 11pm Sunday to Thursday, and 11.30pm on Fridays and Saturdays - compared to 2.30am previously.

A campaign against rowdiness from the bar has been supported by Chingford and Woodford Green MP Iain Duncan Smith and councillors.

Residents said they were often woken in the night by drinkers leaving the club who left litter, bottles, cans and even urinated in the streets.

The council’s review into Funky Mojoe’s licence started after a “street brawl” in January 2013, when around 50 people fought outside the club with belts and bottles in the early hours.