Council consults public on plans to limit crime and noise nuisance
Hammersmith and Fulham Council has begun consulting local people about its plans for a Fulham Broadway Saturation Policy, which would limit noise nuisance and low level crime in the town centre area.
Some parts of London's West End have already been declared saturation zones, a policy which comes under the Licensing Act 2003. This gives local councils the power to refuse to grant any new licences for bars or clubs within the zone.
The policy has proved so successful it is now spreading to other areas of the capital. In Fulham the saturation zone would include the area around Fulham Broadway, along Fulham Road and around Stamford Bridge.
Hammersmith and Fulham's consultation document states:
Over the last few years, the council has become aware that, due to the popularity of the location, the increase in the number of venues and longer trading hours, local residents, businesses and visitors within the Fulham Town Centre Area are being affected by crime and disorder and public nuisance on a regular basis.
Following an earlier consultation with residents, businesses and responsible authorities the council is of the opinion that however tightly controlled and well-run individual premises are in the area, the number of premises in one location is resulting in issues such as excessive late night noise, rowdiness, intimidation, litter and criminal damage, all of which have had a detrimental effect on the local area.
Local residents can view the proposed policy and are invited to make comments until September 23 and a decision is expected by the council in January 2010.
July 15, 2009
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