Noise concerns over sports bar plan at football centre
Plans to open a sports bar and music venue at an indoor football centre in Wakefield have been opposed by residents and councillors over noise concerns.
A licensing hearing is to be held over proposals for the new premises at Back of the Net, on Flanshaw Way.
Documents submitted to Wakefield Council said a purpose built bar, called Crossbar, would have the capacity for 120 customers and be located within the sports facility.
The application said: “Facilities include a cinema-style viewing area with projector and screen for major sporting events, a dedicated darts room for casual games and organised leagues, and a flexible party room for private functions, team presentations and community events.”
The scheme includes fitting CCTV cameras throughout the bar “to support public safety and licensing objectives.”
Applicant Oliver Spencer has applied for permission to sell alcohol at the premises and for live and recorded music between 9am and 11.30pm daily.
The statement added: “The overall character of Crossbar is that of a modern, family-friendly sports bar that complements the wider leisure offering of Back of the Net.
“The emphasis is on providing a safe, enjoyable, and well-managed environment for families, local sports teams and the wider Wakefield community.”
All three councillors for Wakefield North ward and two members of the public have written to the council opposing the scheme.
Councillor Margaret Isherwood said people leaving near to the site on Brick Street had already been affected by noise since the football centre opened.
She said: “Many of the occupants of the houses are families, many with young children, who are already being impacted by the noise from the football club, referees’ whistles, footballs being kicked against the walls, noise from spectators and players.
“Whilst this has been tolerated by the local residents, many feel that this extension will be a step too far, particularly regarding the disruption of their children’s sleep and impact on their mental health.”
Councillor David Pickersgill said operating the premises after 10pm would “constitute a public nuisance.”
One resident commented: “We already have a couple of public houses in the area as well as a working men’s club directly opposite this venue.
“We do not need another late night venue to add to it.
“I do not mind this venue having a licence. I mind the length of time they appear to be opening.”
Another resident said: “There is already an increase of noise from the thudding of footballs, referees’ whistles and the players shouting.
“To further increase this with live/recorded music later than the operating hours of the football centre itself will have a detrimental effect on the properties surrounding it.”
A council licensing sub-committee hearing to determine the application has been scheduled for December 17.