New pub to open despite anti-social behaviour fears

Residents said they didn't want a return of anti-social behaviour

A new pub will open despite fears its punters will use neighbour's gardens for "sex and drugs".

The Peasants' Tavern in North Walsham, Norfolk, has had an alcohol licence approved by North Norfolk District Council.

The venue, known as the Market Tavern before its closure in December 2022, has been linked in the past to "anti-social behaviour".

But the new applicant vowed changes would be made to prevent disturbances.

Four neighbours raised objections to the licence bid.

One said they were "horrified" by the application, adding: "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 01:00 is outrageous, we'll not have any peace - as the drink goes in the noise gets louder."

'Quiet pub'

But Mr Holden insisted the business would "create a hub for the whole community", with the bar focused 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."

The rear fire escape will be alarmed to prevent people from inappropriately using the residential garden of Old Bear Court and the installation of CCTV in and outside the venue, he said.

Local groups, which included a knitting circle, had already inquired about using the pub to meet in, he added.

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.

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