Minutes:
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Mr Todhunter
Mr Todhunter presented his case and stated that he had previously had a positive relationship with the Applicant. He stated that he moved into his property next door to the premises 4 years ago and explained it was a quiet village pub with a redundant beer garden and commented that he accepted moving next to a pub. He explained that when the beer garden opened in the summer of 2024, it had caused him stress and anxiety and had prevented him from enjoying his garden. Mr Todhunter explained that he had on several occasions asked the Applicant calmly and nicely to try and resolve the complaints which he had raised but had not received a good response.
Mr Todhunter raised concerns in relation to the proposed hours within the variation application.
The Senior Licensing Officer asked Mr Todhunter what responses he had received from the Applicant in respect of his complaints. Mr Todhunter explained when he first addressed the Applicant he was advised that he could contact the Applicant with any concerns in the future but the latest communication with the Applicant, he was advised to seek legal advice.
In response to a further question from the Senior Licensing Officer, Mr Todhunter confirmed that he was completely opposed to entertainment outside in the beer garden.
There were no questions to Mr Todhunter from the Applicant.
Councillor Sandell asked Mr Todhunter whether the Applicant advised him that the beer garden was re-opening. Mr Todhunter explained that he was aware the beer garden was re-opening but was not made aware of the intentions for it.
Councillor Rust asked Mr Todhunter if he had considered acoustic fencing. Mr Todhunter explained he was aware of acoustic fencing but was unable to give a view as to whether it would improve the situation.
Councillor Rust raised a further question and asked if formal security staff were present whether this could have an impact on the requests to keep the noise disturbance down. Mr Todhunter stated that if there was a member of staff from The Buck Inn going out to the beer garden regularly to check activity that could be sufficient to control noise levels.
Councillor Rust asked Mr Todhunter whether he had any concerns around the clientele of the pub. Mr Todhunter stated that the owners in charge could have a big input on how their customers behave.
In response to a question raised by the Chair, Mr Todhunter explained his primary concern was that his complaints had not been addressed and raised strong concerns in relation to the extension of the hours which would encourage further issues. Mr Todhunter added that he recognised the need for a compromise but commented that the Applicant was not taking full responsibility with owning the pub.
Other Interested Party (identity kept confidential)
The Interested Party presented their case and raised concerns around the noise disturbance from the premises and that it was affecting family life. They added that there had been parking issues and stated that emergency services would not be able to gain access in that area.
In response to a question from the Senior Licensing Officer, the Interested Party confirmed that their objection was with the extension of hours and the noise from the entertainment going on in the beer garden. They added that they had no problem with the noise inside of the pub as this did not affect them.
There were no other questions from the other parties present.