Inquiry over club noise

Complaints about late-night noise at a Shropshire nightclub are being investigated.

Shropshire Council is investigating allegations of late-night noise at Naughty Nell's in Shifnal, which neighbours claim is giving them sleepless nights.

Environmental health officers are looking into claims that the noise from the Stafford Street venue keeps people living nearby awake until almost 2am at weekends.

The investigation was prompted by Dave Gough of The Grove, Shifnal, who wrote to the council's licensing department with a catalogue of complaints.

Mr Grove claimed in e-mails to the authority that on one occasion doors at the back of the club were wedged open at 12.20am and a large number of people were outside making a considerable noise.

He said: "I then left and returned home where I closed all windows, but the noise prevented me from sleeping until 2am.

"I have spoken to other neighbours and they were kept awake until this time as well.

"I have to get up at 7am for work, so got less than five hours sleep."

Mr Gough further claimed that noise had been an issue every Friday and Saturday night since July 11 this year.

He said: "The noise has led to evey flat occupant having to close all their windows and trickle vents, but the noise levels are that high we are still being disturbed enough for it to stop us from sleeping."

Council spokesman Gar- eth Proffitt confirmed an investigation had begun.

He said: "The council's environmental health officers have received a complaint about Naughty Nell's in Shifnal and are currently investigating.

"It is hoped that all parties will be notified of the outcome of this investigation by the end of this week."

No-one from Naughty Nell's was available for comment.

By Simon Hardy