Angry locals try to block a new restaurant, fearing the food smells too strong
Outraged residents of a posh London street want to halt plans for a restaurant – because they say the stench of hot food would waft into their bedrooms. The conversion of an off-license into a restaurant in Maida Vale has upset some nearby residents. They complained about noise pollution and cooking smell.
Antika Bar Ltd is hoping to open the restaurant on Lauderdale Road with seating for 45 guests. Westminster City Council hosted a meeting with the budding restaurant owner and locals on Wednesday February 2nd.
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A woman who lived nearby disagreed, saying the noise and smell were a “nuisance”. She said the building’s renovation was noisy and she feared it could get worse.
She added: “It was just constant noise. The soundproofing is not sufficient. The air conditioning vent and extractor fan are located just above the bedroom windows. If they plan to serve food for 30 people, the smell will no doubt transfer to the bedrooms.’
Another neighbor said the street was transformed from a quiet neighborhood when she moved in in the 1990s. The numerous restaurants and cafes led to increased noise during opening hours and during early morning deliveries.
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She said: “There is only so much noise that we as a residential area can endure. This would bring too much noise and extra customs to the area.”
Many people protested in writing. One said they were against the plans because the smell of food would waft into their living room – and noisy customers would prevent them from opening the windows in the summer months. Another neighbor said: “I have small children. I really hope you oppose the plan and keep this neighborhood away from late night screams and noise.”
Other local residents said they feared the restaurant would devalue their homes, take up valuable parking space and cause sleepless nights.
Lawyers for the restaurant said the owner wants to develop a positive relationship with the neighbors.
A letter from lawyers for TV Edwards said the store would limit al fresco drinking to those eating, deliveries would not take place between 6pm and 10am and signs would be put up and customers would be told to walk quietly.
It goes on to say: “The licensed premises shall not emit any fumes, fumes or odors which would nuisance persons living or conducting business in the area in which the premises are located.”
Anil Drayan, Westminster City Council’s environmental health officer, said they believed the restaurant could resolve any odor issues before it opened. He said, “Environmental Health are satisfied with the information provided.”
A decision on the concession of the restaurant is still pending.
