Open Letter: Ashford Rugby Club

13.9.09

Dear Sirs,

With regards to the issue dated 10.9.09, may I ask if it was intentional to place the item about assault and affray at Ashford rugby club immediately above the article about extending the rugby clubs licensing laws?

Given the proposed extended licensing, I am concerned many residents in Kennington, Bybrook and Bockhanger are anxious about the proposals, and given the details of a variety of crimes relating to alcohol consumption and the Rugby Club in this issue, this concern seems to be justified.

Following the Beer Festival at the Rugby club, residents and visitors noted broken glass on the pavements in all directions. Combined with antisocial behaviour, thefts and loud noise, it does not seem to be a sensible decision to extend licensing for these premises, especially as the council are unable to cope with the present licencing of limited events during the year, let alone with weekly occurences of such social impact.

The council has a responsibility to it's borough residents to ensure a right to quiet enjoyment of their property, and I have yet to see evidence of this right being upheld.

--
Kelly-Marie Blundell
Ashford Liberal Democrats