We all like to enjoy ourselves. We all like the convenience of a take-away, or a pub nearby. Most of us behave in a moderate
and civilised manner when using them. Furthermore most proprietors are good coitizens and respectful of the needs of their
neighbours.
However, some may not be. Or some may simnply not understand the problems and implications.
This is wghere YOU the concerned citizen comes in. Undertake these simple steps to ensure good lopcal businesses and
stop rising crime and sleepless nights!
a. TAKE-AWAYS
1. All food establishments must display their opening hours in the window. Make sure that they do.
2. Check to ensure they are not serving food beyond those times.
3. Ensure that no late light extensions are granted without your knowing about it.
4. Ocassionally observe the establishment for types of clientele/unusual comings and goings/groups of young people hanging
around late at night.
5. Check that customers do not block or hinder the pavements, or junctions or road.
b. PUBS/BARS
1. Again ensure that no late light extensions are granted without your knowing about it.
2. Find out what the local Council and Police policy is on late nights in residential areas: some have a rule that no
bars may open after midnight. (thus containing drunkenness/asb to the town centre).
3. If you hear music coming form the bar check that they have a music license.
4. If you hear live bands- ensure that they have the appropriate license. Also that the Fire Officer has checked the
premises for entertainments.
5. Late night noise such as slamming of car doors can be a real problem. If yo are disturbed file a complaint to the
Council and Police for anti-social;behavoiur.
6. Watch out for drug dealing in car parks. Check for tell-tell signs of spliff ends, burnt silver foil etc.
7. Some establishments sneak things in subtly: a sandwich bar near me subtly became a restaurant, then a bar and now
have live music. No license approval,. All done retraxctively. Keep your eyes open!
A Happy Story:
Many landlords and chains are very responsive. A pub not far away from me owned by a chain received complaints from
its neighbours. A regional manager came down was appalled at what he saw and instituted reforms including: cctv, restricted
opening hours out of doors/garden, and restricted hours for music, and also increased door security etc. He also instituted
regular meetings with the neighbours.
This shows that effective partnerships can be established!
