North Norfolk pub granted new licence despite noise fears
The Pheasant Tavern, on Market Street in North Walsham, has had its bid to sell alcohol approved
A new market town pub’s licence has been approved, despite neighbours fearing they will “not get any peace”.
The Pheasant Tavern, on Market Street in North Walsham, has had its bid to sell alcohol approved by North Norfolk District Council’s licensing committee.
The venue was known as the Market Tavern until the end of December 2022, when it closed after the previous owner died.
Four neighbours objected to the Pheasant’s licence bid, with concerns they would see a return of antisocial behaviour associated with the previous venue.
None spoke at this week’s meeting but provided written comments, with one who lives in Old Bear Court, behind the pub, describing their “horror” at the application.
They said: “We do not want them using our garden for drinking, smoking, exchanging money for drugs, sex and anything else they fancy.
“The pub’s fire door opens straight into our garden.
“Also, being open until 1am is outrageous, we’ll not have any peace – as the drink goes in the noise gets louder.”
But the applicant, Charles Holden, said changes would be made to prevent disturbances.
He insisted the business wanted to “create a hub for the whole community”, with the bar focusing on real ales.
“We are aiming to be a ‘quiet pub’ – no loud jukeboxes, no flashing fruit machines or large televisions streaming sports,” he said.
“We understand that there were some difficulties previously regarding the public house as was.
“But we also believe we have, and are able to, take the appropriate steps to overcome this.”
Changes include alarming the rear fire escape to prevent people from inappropriately using the garden of Old Bear Court and installing CCTV in and outside the venue.
Mr Holden said local groups, including a knitting circle, had already inquired about using the pub to meet in.
The committee unanimously approved the licence.
“The whole ethos was a departure from anything historical and was welcomed by the committee,” a solicitor speaking on behalf of councillors said.