Rugby club attacks sound licence snub

Scarborough Rugby Union Football Club spokesman Graeme Young said the borough council’s decision to go against planning advice and reject the licence, which would allow amplified music, tannoy announcements and jingles to be played at certain functions and events, was damaging to the club.

He said: “The UK’s largest mini- rugby festival which was being planned at the club next April will no long be able to go ahead at this time as a consequence of the council’s decision.

“A Yorkshire versus Lancashire Roses match was also planned. As it stands now both these events are under threat as are any others we were planning to hold.”

Mr Young said the club would take on board comments from councillors, who rejected the application over concerns the noise would impact on nearby residents, and would either appeal the decision or resubmit the application.

The plans were met with opposition from a number of residents over existing noise issues.

Peter and Margaret Afford, who live next door to the club in Scalby, welcomed the decision after claiming noise from the club was driving them out of their home.

Mr Afford, who strongly objected to the proposal, said: “We are absolutely delighted that we have stopped them making more noise but we still have the ongoing problem of night-time music.”

Mr Young, however, maintained there was no evidence of the club being responsible for noise pollution.

Scarborough and Whitby MP Robert Goodwill said: “This has been an ongoing problem for some considerable time. The rugby club is a fantastic facility but you all have to be good neighbours and make sure activities don’t impinge upon those who live close by.”