Stourbridge pub allowed outside bar and TV despite objections from residents

An application for amendments to a pub’s licence in Stourbridge have been approved despite objections from people living nearby.

The Gigmill, on South Road, wanted variations to its licence to allow an external bar for use during periods of high demand, to show films on an external TV and allow people under 18 into the premises after 10 pm but only if they are dining and accompanied by an adult.

Councillors on Dudley’s Licensing Sub-committee delivered their verdict on the application at a meeting on May 19.

A resident living near the pub, who objected to the application from pub operators Marstons, told the meeting: “The smoking area currently causes an invasion of my privacy as occupants have a clear line of sight into my living room, kitchen and garden, previously the smoking area was screened with small trees in pots.”

Another resident objecting to the amendments was worried about children seeing inappropriate films and had a question about the outside bar.

She said: “Is it necessary? In the last few weeks we have seen four or five cars in the car park. Do you need an extra bar to cope with huge amounts of customers?

“The TV screen and speakers can be heard not just in the street, on a clear day they can be heard as far away as Greyhound Lane and places like that; sound travels a lot, it’s a residential area.”

Marstons’ solicitor, Chris Grunert, from John Gaunt and Partners, told councillors the films are intended to attract families to the pub so would be age appropriate and not be shown after 8pm.

Mr Grunert added: “As a good neighbour my clients are aware things that take place can impact on others.

“We have spent a considerable amount of time and expert guidance ensuring our speakers cannot be put up to an unacceptable level.

“We have put in place a mechanical system where we can control all of that, we won’t have those blaring to anybody.

“We are not asking for permission to cause a nuisance.”

Councillors were also told neither the police or environmental health officers had any objections to the application and residents have the option to ask for a review of the licence if there were ongoing issues related to the pub.