Historic Pateley Bridge Club Faces Licence Battle as Neighbours Complain of Noise and Late-Night Disorder

Residents raise concerns over anti-social behaviour while supporters back venue’s role in the community

A historic members’ club at the heart of Pateley Bridge is facing opposition from neighbours over plans to secure a new alcohol licence that would allow it to continue hosting events, functions and community gatherings.

The Pateley Club, a landmark venue that has served the Nidderdale community for more than 145 years, has applied to North Yorkshire Council for a premises licence after being advised it can no longer rely solely on its existing club premises certificate for certain activities.

The application is due to be considered by councillors this week and has sparked a debate among local residents, with some raising concerns about noise, anti-social behaviour and late-night disruption, while others have rallied behind the club, describing it as an important community asset.

What The Licence Application Would Allow

Under the proposed licence, The Pateley Club would be permitted to sell alcohol and provide live and recorded music until midnight from Sunday to Thursday and until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays.

The venue has also requested permission to remain open for an additional 30 minutes after licensable activities have ended.

However, North Yorkshire Police have formally objected to the original hours, citing complaints received over the past 12 months which they say could undermine licensing objectives relating to the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety and the prevention of public nuisance.

Licensing officer PC Antony Lockey-Smith said the force could not support the proposed operating hours and requested earlier closing times.

Following discussions, the club agreed to revised hours requiring alcohol sales and music to end at 11pm from Sunday to Thursday, with the premises closing at 11.30pm.

Neighbours Describe Noise, Disturbance and Disorder

North Yorkshire Council has received objections from three residents living close to the venue.

One neighbour claimed they had contacted police more than a dozen times regarding incidents they believe were linked to activity at the club.

They said:

“It is not just people having a good time. It is fighting, screaming and shouting that spills into the street and has resulted in windows being broken and people hurt. I am shocked no one has been hit by a car.

“This can be as early as 10pm and as late as 3am. This is on top of music coming from the club until around 1am and patrons going in and out into the early hours, with doors slamming each time.”

Another resident said noise from the venue regularly affects family life, particularly during warmer months when windows are open and more outdoor activity takes place.

Club Defends Its Role in the Community

In response to the objections, representatives for The Pateley Club said they actively encourage customers to leave quietly and take steps to minimise disturbance to nearby residents.

The club also noted that it is situated in the centre of Pateley Bridge alongside pubs, restaurants and late-night food outlets, making it part of the town’s wider hospitality and social scene.

Despite the objections, the application has attracted considerable local support.

North Yorkshire Council has received 13 representations backing the licence application, with supporters highlighting the club’s importance as a venue for community events and social gatherings.

Club representatives say securing the licence is vital for the venue’s future and would enable it to continue hosting wakes, charity fundraisers, christenings, birthday parties and other community events.

Council Decision Expected This Week

The application will be considered by North Yorkshire Council’s Statutory Licensing Sub-Committee at Harrogate Civic Centre on Friday.

The outcome could have significant implications for one of Pateley Bridge’s longest-established social venues, as councillors weigh the club’s role as a community hub against concerns from nearby residents about noise, disturbance and late-night behaviour.