I recently went to a planning hearing for yet another drinking establishment in Billericay High Street.

Despite 177 objections, the application was approved. This planning meeting was the usual nominal nod to the democratic process, but the outcome was inevitable.

I thought at the time the bored demeanour of the officials was a giveaway and that the decision was already made. It had to be so because we residents are not seriously considered or protected in these applications. That’s why the 177 objections counted for little.

We may fondly think that paying the ever-rising council tax includes and protects our right to a peaceful and happy home. Wrong.

There are just four licensing objectives. These are: Experienced and responsible management shall be in place; the prevention of crime and disorder; public safety (listed as fire alarms and toilets) and the prevention of public nuisance.

You would think that the last of these would cover the concerns of residents.

However, public nuisance is covered on the application as only requiring a designated supervisor to monitor the volume of music, to display notices saying “leave quietly”, and the monitoring of customers on the pavement outside.

No mention of protecting us from more vomit around the area. Or the early hours starting and revving of cars with full stereo accompaniment. Or more rowdy shouting. Then yet more drunken drivers leaving for home – often over the pavements.

All we can look forward to now is more of the same.

Phillip Walter
Chantry Way
Billericay