East London pub under threat as proposed new development sparks noise complaint fears

The Lord Napier Star in Hackney Wick has claimed that new homes are planned to be built right next door to the establishment, which could threaten their late license.

The proposed homes would have balconies which overlook the pub’s backyard, looking straight down into the pub garden where people gather until 1.30am.

The pub claims that the developer’s noise report skipped the pub garden completely, and took place on a quiet weekday as opposed to a busy weekend.

The venue fears that any noise complaints made when people have moved into the homes could spark a license review and put the pub’s late nights at risk.

They have called for the public to contact Tower Hamlets council in a bid to prevent the development from moving forward.

In a post on Instagram, the pub wrote: “We are not against positive development in the area, but this is a very real threat to our late license.”

Another post said: “We cannot let this erosion of such a huge part of our culture and national identity continue to be tolerated by people not from the area chasing the almighty pound.”

Many pub-goers went to the comment section to support the pub and object to the development.

One wrote: “That pub is absolutely amazing. I love Hackney Wick and the artistic and musical culture it has had for decades. Now all the new flats are shadowing what was - and still mostly is - a vibrant bustling lively community.

“The noise complaints are starting and businesses face a bleak future if the development continues in this way.

Another joked: “Close every single pub and build more Tescos that’s it that’s all we need“

The Lord Napier Star first closed in 1995, and spent 25 years hosting illegal raves and squatters before reopening in late 2020.