Noise nuisance ‘cafe’ silenced — for now

TORBAY Council has pulled the plug on live music at a Paignton bar - for the time being.

- by GUY HENDERSON Local Democracy Reporter

A five-hour meeting of the bay's licensing subcommittee ended with disappointment for the owner of Molly’s on Paignton harbourside.

After hearing how people living nearby had to change their daily routines or leave their homes because the music coming from the bar was so loud, the committee ordered owner Lee Tyrrell to stop the music.

However, chair Councillor Mark Spacagna said the door was still open for him to apply for a variation of his licence alongside a noise management plan.

“Without a noise management plan in place, the board had to make the decision it did,’ said Cllr Spacagna after the meeting.

Mr Tyrrell said he was “shocked and disappointed” by the decision.

But, he added: “It’s not the end. We will be working with a sound engineer and looking to vary the licence.”

Supporters said the venue was a hub for the harbour community where thousands of pounds was raised for charity, but the council said it was currently not suitable for live and recorded music.”

“Should the rights of one commercial entity override a person's enjoyment of their own home?” council officer Tom West asked.

Solicitor John Dunkley, on behalf of Molly's, said the cafe/bar drew tourists and locals to the harbour, and contributed to the economy and cultural life of Paignton.