Manningham snooker lounge refusal is overturned by planning inspector

THE decision to refuse retrospective planning permission for a controversial snooker club has been overturned.

Back in February, Bradford Council turned down an application for the Clifton Snooker Lounge in Clifton Street, Manningham, which had been operating without permission since November 2017.

The reasons were given as: “The use of the premises as a snooker hall would be detrimental to the amenities of neighbouring residents by reason of noise, vehicular activity and general disturbance, particularly late at night or at other unsocial hours.

“The issues are exacerbated as the premises has no off street parking and is thus reliant on street parking in close proximity to the residential properties.”

An application had also been refused in July 2018, with planners saying it was detrimental to people living on the road.

The Telegraph & Argus has previously reported on complaints from neighbours regarding anti-social behaviour including drug dealing and cars revving their engines outside the venue.

Nadeem Mohammed, from the club, told the T&A he would be putting up boards to protect against noise and said he was working with neighbours and would only be letting members in.

On another occasion, he said what goes on outside the club has nothing to do with him and he set it up to give people somewhere to socialise instead of hanging around on the streets.

An appeal was made against February’s decision which has now been upheld.

In his decision, inspector Roy Merrett said any potential disturbances outside the building would be “very fleeting in nature, particularly given the capacity for clients to wait and socialise within the building itself when not actually participating in the leisure activities, therefore limiting the need to congregate outside”.

He added: “In addition it is undisputed by the Council that, outside the planning process, it has not received any complaints regarding nuisance associated with the premises.

“Some third parties have referred to littering associated with users of the premises, including the leaving of drug paraphernalia. I have noted the appellant’s comment that they intend to employ additional staff with a view to deterring potential anti-social behaviour.”

The inspector said while this could not be easily enforced against through planning conditions, “the appellant has displayed signage on the premises to warn patrons against inconsiderate behaviour, thus demonstrating commitment to addressing any issues”.

It’s also said persistent anti-social behaviour could be addressed by the Council under separate powers.The premises must be used for no other purpose than a snooker lounge and must not operate later than 11pm.

The inspector said: “Drawing these considerations together, and subject to appropriate conditions controlling use and operating hours, I conclude the development would not result in unacceptable harm to the living conditions of nearby residents with particular regard to noise disturbance.”