Leeds Nightclub Implements Lollipop Strategy to Quell Noise Concerns

A licensing sub-committee of the Leeds City Council has approved extended operating hours for the Home and Carousel venue, despite concerns from K2 Apartments residents about noise and anti-social behavior. The venue, which has a history of complaints under previous operators, will now distribute lollipops to departing patrons in a bid to mitigate these issues. This decision follows a council hearing held on Tuesday, as reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Home and Carousel, located on the former site of Tiger Tiger bar, is set to remain open later, selling alcohol until 04:00 on weekdays and 05:00 on weekends. The venue comprises several sections, including a bar with arcade games and a nightclub. David Nejrup, operations director of Home and Carousel, believes the lollipop strategy has proven effective in other establishments. He explained that providing sweets to patrons as they leave can help reduce noise levels.

"As daft as it sounds, people tend to become quiet when they have something in their mouth." – David Nejrup

In response to residents' concerns, the venue has implemented several noise-limiting measures. These include relocating the outdoor smoking area and installing acoustic panelling in the downstairs club area. Nejrup emphasized the importance of these steps, asserting that there should be no sound leakage from the nightclub.

"There should be no noise leakage from that nightclub." – David Nejrup

Tony Whitfield, representing K2 tenants, voiced concerns during the council hearing about the venue's historical issues with noise and disturbances. He noted that sound tends to travel through the building, affecting residents' quality of life.

"Sound really does resonate through the building." – Tony Whitfield

The decision to allow later opening hours comes amidst a trend for venues across Leeds to extend their operating times. This move aims to balance the needs of local businesses with those of nearby residents, who have previously raised fears over potential disturbances. With the introduction of lollipops as a novel solution, Home and Carousel hopes to maintain a peaceful environment for its neighbors.