Feathers pub in Aylsham scraps opening hour extension bid

Paul Reis, who runs the Feathers in Aylsham, has withdrawn an application lodged with Broadland Council due to noise complaints about the venue. 

Neighbours say there have been increasing disturbances since the pub changed ownership last summer and claim disruption persists long after closing time. 

However, Mr Reis has warned that his business will not be financially viable if it continues to run under its current opening hours. 

The Feathers pub in Aylsham (Image: Submitted) The withdrawn application included a bid to extend the use of outside areas from 9.30pm until 11pm, which drew concerns from councillors representing Aylsham at the district authority. 

Sue Catchpole, Lib Dem councillor, said: "Local residents tell me there have been increasing disturbances caused by the activities at the Feathers under its new ownership and they are becoming increasingly concerned about the noise levels, especially from the smoking area.

"While they accept some level of noise is to be expected during the day, there is a reasonable expectation that it will be controlled in the evenings. 

"They fear that if the outside areas are allowed to remain open later then they will be disturbed and unable to sleep until much later into the night."

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Aylsham town sign (Image: Antony Kelly) Mr Reis, who took over the pub in July last year, said he felt his hand had been forced in withdrawing his application due to pushback from local councillors. 

He added: "The council has jumped on the bandwagon and left me with no choice. 

"The pub previously closed even earlier than it does now so there has been some increase in noise, but we will eventually have to shut down if we carry on as we are.

"This is not financially viable and the community will lose an asset if they do not support us."

Mr Reis said he intended to resubmit his application next year following further discussions with the council.