Shad Thames may have restriction on bars and restaurants

Southwark's Licensing Committee has agreed to hold a consultation on declaring a saturation zone in the area bounded by Tower Bridge Road, Tooley Street, St Saviour's Dock and the River Thames.

The policy is aimed at controlling the growth of licensed premises which residents claim cause late-night disturbance.

A report by the strategic director of environment and housing revealed that over a year there had been been 30 late night calls to police regarding disturbances, disorder or rowdiness. Shad Thames has 34 licenced premises.

Anna Bengo, joint secretary of the Shad Thames Residents' Association, told the committee that there were constant complaints about shouting when people left bars at closing time. Although the council noise team was often informed it was difficult to identify addresses. Residents also suffered early morning disturbance when refuse was collected from the bars and restaurants at around 6.30am.

At the same meeting a recommendation for a saturation policy at the Elephant and Castle was rejected. However, at the instigation of Cllr Danny McCarthy, the committee requested a report on the situation in Blackfriars Road and The Cut. Later this year members will also consider the need for a saturation policy in the Old Kent Road area.

A public meeting will be held in Shad Thames as part of the consultation.