Hundreds of people have signed a petition to save a popular Brixton nightspot after its license was restricted.
Regulars at Hootananny, Effra Road, fear the pub could be forced to close after Lambeth council apparently imposed an order that it may not allow customers in after 11pm.
More than 750 punters have now signed the petition calling on the council to reverse the decision.
The 500-capacity pub, which won Best London Music venue last year and Best Live Music Pub at the Great British Pub Awards 2010, is normally open until 3am on Fridays and Saturdays.
A statement on the website ipetitions.com, apparently from Hootananny’s management, said: “We will be shut down if we allow anyone in after this time. We are campaigning to change this, but in the meantime please get here before 11pm.”
Cllr Jack Hopkins, cabinet member for public protection, said: “We are working with Hootananny’s management to resolve an increase in complaints to the council and police about the venue. All we are asking is that the venue complies with their existing license.
“We expect this venue and all others in the borough to be run responsibly and in total compliance with their licences so that disturbance to residents is minimised. We welcome well run businesses that show respect for their neighbourhood and work with residents and the authorities in dealing swiftly with any problems that may arise.”
Among those to sign the petition was bar staff member Francesca Ronai Agoro. She said: “I was a regular for five years and now I’m a member of staff.
“This pub is my life. Restricting entry after 11pm will put me out of a job and take away one of Brixton’s best establishments.”
Another, Robin Yates, said: “Late-night Hoots has become a way of life – and a living – for tens of people, a performing and entertainment magnet for thousands (winning London and UK awards), and a vital social and economic force for the good of Brixton, Tulse Hill and Herne Hill.”
Cllr Jack Hopkins, cabinet member for community safety at Lambeth council, told the Brixton Blog he was not aware about the individual case of Hootananny pub, but will look into it.
He said that, following new legislation, he and his team are drafting a wider review into the borough’s pubs and clubs.
He said: “Because of problems in the borough relating to the night time industry we have been speaking to stakeholders about a new licensing policy for the last eight months.
“This draft policy will being going out to consultation in December.”
The Brixton Blog is awaiting a response from Hootananny’s management.
You can view and sign the petition here:
As someone who lives near the Hootananny I have no intention of signing a petition to allow them to continue to make life hell for the locals who have had to put up for years with the endless noise, dirt, and anti-social behaviour relating to the Hootananny and its customers.
I think it would be accurate to say that nearly all near residents of this pub would be happy to see severe restrictions on their opening hours.
NIMBY!