The Crown Inn, a pub recently refurbished and reopened in Lea near Ross-on-Wye, is encountering opposition from a local resident over its proposed outdoor bar. Although the pub secured a late licence in March from county councillors, concerns about noise and late-night disturbances were already voiced by some villagers.
An administrative oversight by Herefordshire Council meant that the outdoor bar plans were not included in the original licence notices. As a result, the inn has submitted a fresh application seeking permission to serve alcohol outdoors until 10pm.
This new proposal has drawn objections from a nearby neighbour, triggering the involvement of the council’s licensing subcommittee to make a final decision. The neighbour expressed concern about the impact on their family’s routine, stating, “My children go to bed at 8pm and we have to get up at 6.15am for school.” They also reported disturbances on weekend nights and ongoing disruption from a humming machine at the back of the pub, noting inadequate soundproofing.
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In an attempt to find a middle ground, the neighbour suggested banning outdoor music from Sunday to Thursday evenings to reduce noise levels, although previous communications with the pub’s management have yet to produce a resolution.
The Crown Inn has responded by indicating that it already limits outdoor music to end at 10pm, an hour earlier than permitted by the current licence, to address noise concerns. The proposed “Summer Bar,” featuring a stone-baked pizza oven and takeaway options alongside beer, ciders, and cocktails, would also close by 10pm nightly.
The council will make its decision on May 29. If approved, the inn’s Summer Bar could open as early as next month, offering a new social space for locals and visitors alike.