Neighbours celebrate victory over nightclub's openings

RESIDENTS are celebrating after magistrates refused to let Winkers Farm Nightclub open to non-members, following a three day court hearing.

The nightclub in Denham Lane, Chalfont St Peter, had applied to Beaconsfield Magistrates Court to remove a condition from one of its licences which restricted entrance to club members only, with the general public only allowed in on certain nights.

Jeremy Allen, representing Winkers, told the court that the condition was antiquated and added nothing to the way the management ran the club.

However, residents living in The Warren, near to the club, said any change would increase numbers going there and lead to more crime in the area.

Mark Williams, representing The Warren residents, said: 'They (the club) hope to get more people in and hope to attract a wider audience. It would increase numbers of people attending the club, increase disorder and decrease control.'

Penny Maynard, co-owner of the club, said a change in the condition would increase control on the door. She said she wanted to change the condition to bring the club on to a 'level playing field' and added: 'We are in competition with many licensed premises in the area around us. A lot can stay open late and do not have any conditions on their licences.'

Chairman of the magistrates' bench Kathleen Peatey MBE said: 'We accept evidence from many local residents that there is considerable disturbance and vandalism.

'We believe that if this application is granted there would be an adverse effect on the quality of life for residents in the area therefore the application is refused.'

She awarded costs to residents of The Warren represented at the hearing.

Catherine Higginson, of The Warren, said after the case: 'We neighbours are very relieved at this outcome.'

Michael Maynard, club manager, said: 'It is a fair decision based on the evidence given. Winkers will still be open as normal.'