Noise concerns over sport centre booze licence bid

Residents living nearby said noise from football matches would get worse if the venue sold alcohol

Granting an alcohol licence to a sports complex could make noise and swearing even worse on football matchdays, residents have warned.

United Lounge at the Riverside Sports Complex, in Chester-le-Street, has applied to Durham County Council for a licence to sell alcohol to "improve the facility for visitors".

However, Riverside Residents' Association said it had concerns about "unacceptable levels of noise and foul and abusive language".

Licence applicant Lewis Pendleton said he would work with residents to "mitigate future complaints" and would install CCTV cameras at the site.

Members of the council's licensing sub committee will consider the application on Wednesday.

People living nearby said they were regularly bothered by noise and nuisance from football matches played at the leisure complex.

A statement from the Riverside residents' association said: "The nuisance experienced includes unacceptable levels of noise, foul and abusive language, and spectators banging drums, all of which can be clearly heard at the residential properties and negatively impact on residents' home life.

It also said granting an alcohol licence would "exacerbate" problems with anti-social behaviour.

'Enhance the experience'

Mr Pendleton said: "We take concerns seriously and are committed to working with residents and the county council to mitigate any legitimate noise issues through responsible stewarding, engagement with teams, and respectful scheduling."

Concerns were also raised over the consumption of alcohol on an outdoor balcony at the venue, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

The residents' group said it was worried open-air drinking would encourage people to shout "with less inhibition".

However, Mr Pendleton said: "We reject any implication that alcohol sales will inherently lead to disorderly conduct.

"Many community sports clubs operate responsibly licensed facilities that enhance the experience for families and visitors without generating anti-social behaviour."