Fears community may be 'broken up' by drunk people

Residents fear their community may be "broken up" by anti-social behaviour from drunk people, after plans for a new bar.

Some residents have expressed their concerns after Stroud District Council granted permission for a new alcohol licence at 11 Lansdown.

Licencee Adam McVay plans to use the venue as an "education bar" targeted at people aged between 30 and 50-years-old.

"It would be a space for community and the future of drinking, such as the fermentation of kombucha," Mr McVay said.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, Mr McVay initially wanted to seek permission for his company, Holy Water, to sell alcohol, play music, films and provide late refreshments.

However, the proposals sparked concerns among several residents who were worried it would lead to late night disturbances.

Janet Westgarth, who lives nearby, said it is "difficult" to sleep on Friday and Saturday nights due to the noise from drunken people in the streets after pubs close.

"We have had people running on the top of the cars, denting and damaging them.

"We have had people banging doors, shouting," she said.

Sean Roe, who lives above the site, said "sound travels incredibly easy" into his apartment.

"There's no sound proofing at present between the two spaces. You can hear people talking," he said.

Mr McVay said he would be happy to provide soundproofing at his own expense, and added that he would be willing to close at 23:00.

The council granted the premises licence with a daily end time of 23:30.

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