Sutton pub faces noise restrictions after drag bingo complaints

Sutton Council is to decide on November 13 whether to impose new restrictions on The Prince of Wales pub in Cheam following complaints about noise from outdoor events. Residents have raised concerns about amplified music, public announcements, and late-night noise from activities including drag queen bingo, sports screenings, and live music.

Resident concerns over noise impact

A formal licence review was triggered after neighbours submitted representations detailing the impact of the noise. Jason Plent, acting on behalf of residents from Malden Road, Cookes Lane, and Church Road, has been corresponding with the council since 2021. Residents reported being forced to leave their gardens or close windows to escape the noise, with one stating the noise affected their mental health and another that it disturbed their disabled wife's rest. The complaints extend beyond specific events to general noise from the pub's outdoor areas.

Pub supporters rally behind local venue

The pub's regulars and supporters have defended The Prince of Wales, highlighting its 150-year history and its role as a community hub. They argue that the venue was established long before the current complaints arose and that tighter restrictions could jeopardise its future. Supporters noted the pub has raised over £15,000 for charities, including Pilgrim Bandits and the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans, through events like its annual Armed Forces Day. Some questioned the basis of complaints, citing a bagpiper performance on Armed Forces Day as an example of noise honouring veterans.

Customers expressed concern that the pub, which underwent refurbishment including an outdoor garden bar in spring 2026, could face closure if further restrictions are imposed during difficult trading times. One supporter suggested that those complaining had knowingly bought homes next to an established public house.

Proposed licence conditions

Mr Plent clarified that the aim is not to close the pub but to establish clear, enforceable conditions on its licence. The measures sought by residents include a ban on amplified music and public address systems in outdoor areas, a 10pm curfew for the garden bar, and the removal of exemptions under the Live Music Act. These conditions are reportedly modelled on those applied to another local pub, Ye Olde Red Lion, by Sutton Council.

Neither Environmental Health nor the Metropolitan Police have submitted formal representations regarding the noise complaints ahead of the licensing sub-committee hearing.

What happens next

Sutton's Licensing Sub-Committee will hear evidence from both residents and pub supporters on November 13. A decision on whether to impose additional conditions on The Prince of Wales's licence is expected shortly after the hearing.