East Leeds pub gets green light for extended opening times despite noise nuisance claims from residents

The Orchard in Dib Lane, Roundhay, had applied to extend the times for sale of alcohol each day to 10am-11pm on Sunday, 10am-11.30pm on Monday to Wednesday and 10am-midnight on Thursday to Saturday.

The decision was made following a licensing sub-committee meeting on August 11, at which both applicants and objectors gave evidence for and against the proposals.

Leeds City council have since confirmed the committee agreed to extend the start and end time for the sale of alcohol.

The application had also attracted a number of letters both supporting and objecting to the plans. Those in favour claimed the pub had improved over the years, and that very few complaints had been made about the pub in recent years.

Meanwhile, those objecting to the proposals claim the pub is beset with loud noises and excessive swearing from customers congregating outside.

A representative of landlady Claire Raynard, told the meeting the pub had improved over the years, and that they were willing to work with local residents to solve any problems related to the pub.

Objecting to the application, a local resident claimed the pub was originally built on the understanding only be piped music at “a conversational level” would be played.

He added: “I understand times change and things move on. But the amount of noise we get in summer time is well above the noise levels that should be acceptable.

“This pub was built in a residential area. We wouldn’t have this problem if they could control the people outside – I know they said they stand on the door, but lately the noise level has drastically increased. It has affected the mental wellbeing and the noise pollution for the residents.”

Following a lengthy discussion in private, members of the committee agreed not to announce its decision today, and instead send it to the interested parties via post.