The Licensing (2003 Act) Sub-Committee of Newham Council granted a new premises licence to Clapton Community Football Club, subject to additional conditions. The decision followed a hearing where the club presented its case and addressed concerns raised by local residents regarding noise, public nuisance, and potential crime and disorder.

New Premises Licence for Clapton Community Football Club

The committee granted a new premises licence to Clapton Community Football Club, located at The Old Spotted Dog Ground, Rear of 212 Upton Lane, Forest Gate, E7 9NP. The application sought to allow the supply of alcohol, plays, films, performances of dance, live and recorded music, and other similar activities from 12:00 to midnight daily, with premises opening hours from 9:00 to 01:00.

The club, run by the Old Spotted Dog Ground Trust Limited, is a community-focused organisation that uses its grounds for football matches, community events, and as a meeting space for local groups. The applicant, represented by Anu Mayor, the designated premises supervisor, explained that the new licence was sought to replace an existing one and to allow for extended hours, particularly for post-match activities for players and for occasional private hires and community events.

Three local residents had submitted representations against the application, primarily citing concerns about crime and disorder and the prevention of public nuisance. Their main worries included potential noise disturbance from music and patrons, particularly late at night, and the possibility of increased anti-social behaviour, litter, and loitering in the surrounding residential areas. One resident, Rowan Lau, who lives on Disraeli Road, expressed concerns about noise impacting the sleep of children and working parents, and the potential for increased nuisance if the premises were leased to other event organisers.

During the hearing, the club addressed these concerns. Anu Mayor emphasised that the club is run by volunteers and that any profits are reinvested into the grounds. She highlighted that since taking over in July 2020, there had been no formal noise complaints and that events were primarily held within the clubhouse. The club proposed to surrender the old licence upon the granting of the new one.

The committee discussed the proposed hours, particularly the extension to midnight for alcohol sales and entertainment. Councillors sought clarification on the capacity for film screenings, the difference between the current and proposed hours, and the management of dispersal of crowds after events.

The club agreed to several additional conditions to be attached to the licence, including:

• Noise Control: While not agreeing to specific noise limiters, the club committed to seeking advice on noise control measures and ensuring sound levels are managed to prevent disturbance to neighbours.
• Litter Management: The club will ensure adequate litter bins are available and that measures are in place to remove waste from the immediate vicinity of the premises.
• Alcohol Sales: Alcohol sold for off-premises consumption will be limited to the club's specially brewed craft beer, and sales will be managed to prevent consumption on the street. Open glass vessels will not be permitted outside the clubhouse.
• Crowd Management: The club will continue to manage crowd dispersal organically, as they have done successfully with large attendances at football matches. For ticketed events, entry will be monitored, and security will be employed if necessary, with the cost borne by the event organiser.
• Accessibility for Residents: The club stressed its accessibility to residents, with personal contact details shared and an open-door policy for communication.

The committee decided to grant the new licence with these additional conditions, which will be communicated in writing to all parties. The applicant also confirmed they would surrender the existing licence.