Food hut on South Parade Pier applies for alcohol licence

The owner of the Old Pier Hut, which currently offers a range of hot food and drinks on the pier in Southsea, has applied for a licence to sell alcohol - with a decision due next week.

If approved the station would be able to serve alcohol from 10am until 11pm from Monday to Sunday.

However, the application has proved controversial with more than 30 objections from nearby residents submitted citing concerns over noise and anti-social behaviour.

City councillor Linda Symes said she is objecting on behalf of those living in Savoy House, which is opposite the pier.

'The licensing objectives are very clear and it is felt that these will be breached by allowing the sale of alcohol, by keeping children safe from harm and causing a public nuisance,' she said.

Resident William Bell said: 'We retired here just over two years ago now. Obviously we were aware of the pier and its attendant noises. What we were not aware of was that we were going to be subjected to a full-blown funfair which blares out repetitive high-pitched tunes during the fair opening hours.

'Now we are informed of another potential eyesore and earsore right opposite our retirement home in the form of decking which will undoubtedly attract more noise and drunken behaviour.'

Mohammad Amin, who lives in a flat in St Helens Mansion opposite, agreed. He said: 'I and the remaining 10 residents are horrified of the scheme going ahead. Already the noise pollution has gone up significantly due to increased volume of traffic as a direct result of closure of the seafront road, but the idea that there could be alcohol takeaway from 10am to 11pm shows total lack of respect for the local residents.'

SEE ALSO: Portsmouth pub granted licence despite noise and rubbish concerns

However, Jon Wallsgrove who represents the applicant Murat Anik said the business 'is not a bar but primarily a takeaway food business.'

He added: 'I am instructed that my client will amend his application to 9pm each day if, and only if, all representations from interested parties are withdrawn.'

A decision will be made following a virtual meeting on Thursday, September 10.

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