Broadstairs: The Little Albion to have its licence reviewed by Thanet District Council
Published: 08:22, 05 August 2017
Family friendly Broadstairs pub The Little Albion is facing closure thanks to ‘numerous complaints’.
It is due to have its licence reviewed by TDC on Thursday, August 10 on the grounds of public nuisance, even though owner Marcus Hogg says there has only been three complaints and he has complied with what has been asked of him.
Regulars at the popular boozer in St Peter's Road have hit back saying the pub’s closure would be ‘devastating’.
A petition against the application has been set up in a bid to keep the pub from having to close its doors.
Written on the gopetition page, it says: “The new owner has done a fantastic job of turning the venue around in the past year, however a few residents are asking for this lovely pub to be closed which will mean the loss of jobs and a facility which is enjoyed by many in the local community.
“The loss of this pub to the majority of locals would be devastating, the entertainment has been fantastic in bringing in both regulars and further afield patrons.
“The owner has complied with everything asked of them and is hoping that this will be enough.
“Too many pubs are closing, therefore we need to try and preserve this local pub.
“We need to show Thanet District Council the strength of feeling towards thus application and we urge you to sign our petition.”
The petition has received more than 480 signatures since it begun on Friday, July 21.
Owner Marcus said: "They are reviewing my license because three neighbours have complained about my live music.
"I have fitted door closers on my doors I have fitted a noise limiter too - I have done everything the council have asked.
"They are saying they don't think the pub is a suitable venue for music all of a sudden after 30 years plus of live music being in here!
"One of the complaints is from a man I had a disagreement with because he told me I was bringing my two boys up incorrectly - even his wife said he was wrong!
"I asked him how many kids he had! He said none!"
Councillor Lin Fairbrass, deputy leader of the council and cabinet member for community services said: “The council has received numerous complaints from local residents about live music at the Little Albion and our Environmental Health team has brought forward a review of it licence on the grounds of public nuisance.
“This review is currently in the period for representations where people and businesses can comment.
“Representations can be made to licensing@thanet.gov.uk up until August 10.
“After this date, the report will be published on the TDC website in advance of the Licencing sub-committee hearing.
“Anyone who has made comments will then be advised of the hearing date.”
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Katie Davis