Villagers fear late-night events at North Yorkshire hotel could disrupt sleep

Villagers fear plans for late-night drinking and entertainment at a North Yorkshire hotel could leave children struggling at school and residents exhausted at work because of disturbed sleep.

Tokyo Industries Ultimate Ltd has applied for a new premises licence for Monk Fryston Hall Hotel, near Selby, which is undergoing renovation ahead of reopening.

The proposals originally sought permission for alcohol sales, live and recorded music, films, dancing and other entertainment indoors and outdoors until 2am, seven days a week.

However, the applicant has since agreed to reduce the proposed hours and remove several activities following discussions with North Yorkshire Police and the council’s environmental protection team.

Under the revised application, alcohol sales and live and recorded music would be permitted indoors until 1am, with outdoor activities ending at 10.30pm.

Late-night refreshments would be available indoors until 2am, while separate arrangements are proposed for alcohol sales to hotel residents and their guests.

The hotel, which has an 80-cover restaurant, gardens and on-site parking, is being refurbished with plans to provide accommodation, dining and wedding facilities.

But the licensing application has attracted opposition from Monk Fryston Parish Council and local residents.

The parish council warned the original proposals would harm the character of the village and disturb nearby households.

In its objection, the council said amplified music and outdoor speakers from wedding marquees were likely to generate intrusive noise.

It also raised concerns about vehicles arriving and leaving the venue, including noise from engines, voices and car doors.

The parish council has called for tighter restrictions on operating hours, proposing that outdoor activities finish at 10pm, activities involving non-residents at 11pm and those for hotel residents at 2am.

Residents have expressed similar concerns, with one objector warning that the original proposals could fundamentally change the nature of the hotel and its relationship with the village.

They said: “Residents should reasonably be able to expect a period of relative peace and quiet during the overnight hours.”

Another resident questioned whether late-night entertainment was appropriate in a small rural community.

They said: “Disturbances till 2am and beyond will affect the ability of people getting up for work and children being rested in order to go to school.”

The resident also raised concerns about increased traffic on the A63, describing existing conditions as difficult for pedestrians and drivers.

A further objection warned that noise from outdoor music and people leaving events could spread through the village.

The resident said: “The proposed hours are excessive for the location and proximity to properties.”

Concerns have also been raised about the potential impact on children, older residents and animals, as well as the availability of taxis and public transport late at night.

In total, 10 representations were received during the consultation, although two have subsequently been withdrawn.

The applicant has sought to address concerns by removing plays, indoor sporting events, boxing and wrestling, dance performances and similar activities from the licence application.

Additional conditions have also been agreed with police and environmental protection officers.

The council report acknowledges that licensing decisions must consider the need to support the hospitality industry and economic growth, alongside protecting residents from nuisance and ensuring public safety.

North Yorkshire Council’s statutory licensing sub-committee will consider the application on Monday, October 19.

Councillors can approve the licence, impose additional conditions or refuse all or part of the application.