Plans to establish a floating bar at Exeter Quay are encountering substantial opposition due to concerns over noise pollution and public safety, with objections from local residents and city authorities complicating the approval process.
The proposed floating bar, intended to be an extension of an existing venue on Exeter Canal, was initially planned for a June opening. However, the project has been delayed by numerous complaints from nearby residents and city officials.
Residents of a nearby residential complex have raised significant issues regarding noise. They argue that disturbances from the venue are already considerable, with loud music and rowdy patrons causing disruptions well into the early hours. One resident expressed frustration, noting that patrons often create a disturbance when leaving the venue, impacting their ability to rest, especially for those with early commitments. Additional complaints include incidents of individuals jumping from the pontoon into the canal, and accidents involving falls onto the pontoon.
Moreover, photographic and video evidence submitted by residents shows large groups congregating near the water’s edge, further raising concerns about safety and overcrowding.
The city’s Environmental Health department has also weighed in, citing numerous complaints about excessive noise from the venue. In response to these concerns, a warning was issued to the establishment last December, demanding a reduction in noise levels to avoid further legal action. A meeting in March between the venue owner and Environmental Health officials reportedly involved claims that the venue was struggling financially and that the noise levels were not deemed excessive. The venue owner also mentioned feeling unfairly targeted by local residents.
In June, a communication to the licensing authority clarified that the floating pontoon would not include additional bar facilities or a kitchen. It was intended merely as a seating area for patrons to consume drinks purchased from the main venue. To address public order concerns, the owner stated that CCTV would be installed to monitor the area. The venue owner has dismissed the objections as trivial and asserted a willingness to address these issues at upcoming licensing meetings, expressing dissatisfaction with the lack of response from those raising concerns.
Additionally, the city’s Planning Enforcement department has voiced apprehensions regarding the pontoon’s safety and legality. The department highlighted that a formal planning application for the pontoon has not been submitted, thus hindering a thorough assessment of its design and safety measures.
As the proposal advances to the Sub-Licensing Committee of Exeter City Council, the committee will need to balance the benefits of the proposed floating bar against the substantial concerns raised by residents and city officials. The decision will be pivotal in determining whether the project proceeds, with potential ramifications for similar developments in the area.
In conclusion, the floating bar proposal at Exeter Quay faces significant obstacles due to noise and safety objections. The forthcoming decision by the licensing committee will be critical in resolving whether the project will move forward, with ongoing developments expected to provide further clarity on the matter.
