| Irish Pub Fights Council Action
By Trevor O'Sullivan
The future of a popular pub in Birmingham’s Irish Quarter is in
jeopardy after a number of complaints about noise.
Over the years The Spotted Dog in Digbeth has played a pivotal role in
creating a vibrant atmosphere for the Irish community in the region.
But according to its owner of 22 years, if the pub is prevented from running
a viable business it could set off a chain of events that would obliterate
every other music venue in the Irish Quarter.
Landlord John Tighe claims the problems first started when Birmingham
City Council allowed a housing development to be constructed just 12 to
14 metres from the premises, instead of the national recommendation of
30 metres.
He also maintains many of the noise complaints contain gross inaccuracies.
One anonymous complaint accuses the pub of holding a birthday party
and playing music after 2am something Mr Tighe strongly refutes.
The Irishman believes the current situation could spell the death knoll
for the quarter if the council do not deal with the issue.
He said: “It was interesting that the council said that when they
go to court they use complainants’ evidence that hasn’t been
witnessed and if they nail me and I am the quietest of the music venues
it will set a precedent that in this area everybody gets knocked over.
“The area will be left desolate, with none of its vibrant character.
It will comprise thousands of residents living in mean, lifeless streets
who will be wondering what happened to that terrific, lively Irish Quarter
we were promised.”
A spokesperson for Birmingham City Council said: “The Digbeth area
has been identified in the Birmingham Unitary Development Plan as suitable
for the development of a mix of uses including residential, commercial
and cultural uses.
“It is the aim of the city council to ensure traditional public
houses such as The Spotted Dog remain in the area, as this forms part
of the traditional character of the area.
“It is difficult however to find the perfect balance where new developments
are located in close proximity to existing public houses to ensure no
conflict occurs, particularly where loud music is involved.” |
