WINKTON residents haunted by the thought of noisy outdoor entertainment until the small hours at a village hotel are opposing its licensing application.

Nine residents have told Christchurch Borough Council they wish to speak against Gales Ales' conversion and variation of the licence for The Fisherman's Haunt Hotel when it goes before the licensing sub-committee on Friday.

A total of 26 residents have written against the application which includes a 24 hour drinks licence and musical entertainment indoors or outdoors until 1am.

Colin Beadle, chairman of Winkton Residents' Association, says the main concern centres on outdoor music and dancing.

"Outdoor music and entertainment until 1am, with no way of controlling the volume of music and customer-produced noise, must be regarded as anti-social and totally unacceptable to residents in Salisbury Road and Burley Road, Winkton," he says.

Assurances from the licence holder "are of no comfort whatsoever" if the business changes hands.

"We are concerned not only about the noise pollution in the village but also the associated increase in traffic volume on what are already excessively busy roads throughout the year, with chaos levels during the summer season.

"After all, this is a conservation village."

Another villager, Jeremy Evans, wrote: "Light pollution would destroy the rural character of Winkton. The village is situated in the green belt and does not have any street lighting."

He was also concerned about increased disorder and road dangers at the access near a double bend.

Police licensing officer Dick Hudson wants to see a condition limiting outdoor music until 11pm.

The manager had told him it is unlikely any outdoors events will take place. In addition it could jeopardise hotel trade if guests were disturbed.

Mr Hudson was assured the bar would be closed to non-residents at 11pm or 10.30pm on Sundays, as at present.

He told the Daily Echo that ongoing discussions are taking place and if his recommendations are agreed to, police would not oppose the licence.

He also pointed out councillors have the power to review licences should problems arise.

First published: August 30