Controversy Erupts as Historic Hotel Seeks 2am Alcohol and Music License Extension in Lewis Carroll’s Childhood Village
Residents of Croft on Tees, the childhood village of renowned author Lewis Carroll, are up in arms as the new owners of a historic hotel, wedding, and function venue on the banks of the River Tees reveal their plans to extend the alcohol and music license until 2am every day of the week. The Apartment Group, which describes itself as the region’s wedding experience market leader, aims to create an event space and a chapel unlike anything else in the UK.
The proposed extension has sparked outrage among villagers, who fear that their peaceful quality of life will be shattered if the license is extended. They argue that transforming the hotel into a wedding factory will bring excessive noise and disruption to their rural community. St. Peter’s Church, adjacent to the hotel and known for its historical significance to Lewis Carroll, has already booked 45 mid-week weddings for the upcoming year, with many opting for the hotel as their wedding reception venue. This constant stream of wedding-related activity has left villagers anxious about the potential noise from loud music and revelry, especially if events continue until the early hours of the morning.
In a letter of objection, one resident expressed their concerns, saying, Effectively, the proprietors are attempting to operate a wedding factory on our doorstep. The Croft on Tees Parish Council echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the anxiety and concern that the proposed extension would generate among residents, particularly those living in properties situated within the hotel’s courtyard. They argue that Croft on Tees thrives on its peaceful, rural setting and strong sense of community, and such a drastic change would have a detrimental impact on residents’ daily lives.
Residents have also raised the issue of noise pollution, stating that whenever there is a wedding or function at the hotel, the music resonates throughout the entire village. They believe it is unreasonable for a single business to have such a significant negative impact on local residents solely for its financial gain.
In response, Stuart Bailey, CEO of The Apartment Group, emphasized that their application seeks to rectify existing anomalies in the current license and introduce conditions appropriate for a modern hotel. Contrary to popular belief, Bailey clarified that the application does not seek to extend the standard operating hours of the premises. He acknowledged that the concern among residents is primarily related to increased noise and disturbance, and assured them that a noise expert had been employed to assess the potential for nuisance and recommend appropriate noise attenuation measures. Bailey also pledged to monitor noise levels throughout events to ensure compliance with regulations.
The controversy surrounding the extension application has stirred up a debate between the business interests of The Apartment Group and the concerns of the village residents. Both sides have valid arguments, with the hotel owners aspiring to create a unique and unforgettable wedding experience, while villagers aim to protect their peaceful way of life. The upcoming North Yorkshire Council hearing on August 8 will provide a platform for all parties to present their cases, and ultimately, it will be up to councillors to make a decision that balances the interests of the hotel and the community.
Croft on Tees is a village that cherishes its heritage and takes pride in its connection to Lewis Carroll. It is a community that values tranquility and wishes to preserve its rural charm. While the proposed extension may bring economic benefits to the area, it is crucial for all stakeholders to consider the potential impact on residents’ lives. The decision made by the North Yorkshire Council will undoubtedly shape the future of Croft on Tees and its ongoing relationship with The Apartment Group. As the hearing approaches, tensions continue to rise, and the fate of the historic hotel hangs in the balance.
