New pub in Leeds could ‘disturb Channel 4 news’

A broadcaster has expressed concerns that noise from a new pub could disrupt television news programmes.

Brewery Wharf Tavern has applied to Leeds City Council for a premises licence for its city centre bar to operate until 02:00 BST at a site which is also occupied by Channel 4 News.

Broadcasts are delivered from the first floor of a riverside building at Brewery Place, above the bar.

However, a letter from ITN, which runs Channel 4 News, said daily news programmes were broadcast live at 12:00 and 19:00.

“These broadcasts are live and as such are vulnerable to noise and other disruption,” the firm said.

Concerns were raised over noise from an outside area with space for around 100 people.

It said: “In addition, however, we are concerned that even moderate ambient noise – staff chatter, footsteps, laughter, and bar service activity – will be directly audible within the studio.”

ITN said it was happy to work with the applicant to address the noise concerns, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

A licensing sub-committee will consider the application at a hearing on 29 July.

A report to the meeting said conditions had been agreed with the council and West Yorkshire Police.

They included measures to prevent noise spreading through the building, no loudspeakers in use outside after 23:00 BST and customers being asked to keep quiet.

“Noise from a licensable activity at the premises will not be audible at the nearest noise sensitive premises after 23:00.”

Councillors will have the option of granting or refusing the licence, or allowing it with additional conditions.

Brewery Wharf Tavern is a sister venue to sites including Whitelock’s, White Cloth Hall and Meanwood Tavern, and would occupy the old Home restaurant unit.