The Windsor complex in Bearwood granted the license late at night despite protests from neighbours

An entertainment venue has been granted a late-night license despite protests from neighbours. The Windsor complex in Bearwood High Street, which is home to an Indian BBQ, bowling alley and games room, can open until 3.30am daily after plans were approved by Sandwell Council’s licensing committee.

Several neighbors raised objections ahead of Tuesday’s licensing hearing, saying their lives had been affected by loud noise and rowdy behavior from the venue. A number of residents in the adjoining Dunsford Road said the problems they face will be made worse by the venue opening until the early hours.

Opponents listed concerns ranging from “anti-social behavior to fly-tipping, broken glass, urinating in the streets and constant loud music”. But approving the application today, Tuesday June 11, Sandwell Council’s licensing committee said under-18s using the venue should be accompanied by an adult and should leave by 10pm.

Alcohol could be served until 3am, the venue closes half an hour later.

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The venue must also employ bouncers from 9pm daily. Door staff should also remain for 20 minutes after the venue has closed to ensure that customers have left quietly and are not disturbing the neighbours.

The objections, which were published in a redacted form by Sandwell Council ahead of the meeting, said the late night hours were “unnecessary”. “This site is located in a residential area that accommodates families and could increase the amount of noise, rowdy and drunken behavior in the area,” the objection said.

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“It is not necessary for this type of location in the area. Its opening hours are appropriate and appropriate as they are.” Another opponent said residents had already faced “arguments and aggressive behaviour” from smokers outside the venue – which often left elderly residents and children feeling unsafe.

The objection said: “Loud behavior by Windsor customers, whether they were drinking or smoking outside the premises or returning to their cars – which regularly includes loud conversations and laughter, aggressive interactions such as shouting arguments and aggressive interactions between customers – it not only impacts the tranquility of the neighborhood but can occasionally create an environment that does not feel safe for residents like me; which also include small children and the elderly.”

The opponent said parking was already a problem and would become a huge problem with longer opening hours. “Parking is also a major issue, particularly at weekends or if there is an event at the venue as it has no dedicated car parks and customers mainly use Dunsford Road for parking when visiting the venue,” said this.

The application from the Windsor Complex said: “The variation application is to extend the licensing hours and increase the licensable area for the premises based on customer demand and to keep the business afloat.

“The headquarters has always had a positive impact on the community, which includes employees, suppliers, customers, the environment and the people of the area. It will always demonstrate due diligence on licensing objectives and ensure that it is run in an efficient and secure manner.”