Yemeni centre to shut after noise dispute

A COMMUNITY centre set up without planning permission by a Yemeni group has been ordered to close after residents complained noise and anti-social behaviour was spoiling their quality of life.

Residents said visitors to the Aden Club - a former shop at the junction of Hinde Street and Robey Street, Firth Park - would hang about on the streets until 3am playing loud music.

Letters of objection sent to Sheffield Council said visitors came from outside the area for "sheesha" - a Middle Eastern method of smoking tobacco - and to chew gat.

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Residents said there was anti-social behaviour, leading them to feel "intimidated" walking past.

They added there was late night disturbance - cars racing up and down the street outside and sounding their horns - along with dangerous and illegal parking. It was alleged visitors would also repair their cars at the roadside.

People living in the area said the building was inappropriate for the purpose and that better, alternative sites were available nearby.

A total of 12 letters of objection were sent to Sheffield Council's West and North Planning and Highways area board against the development.

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Burngreave Labour councillor Ibrar Hussain, who spoke on behalf of annoyed residents, welcomed the refusal of planning permission.

He said: "It was a good decision. The centre was a major blight on the area and the noise was unbelievable."

Representatives of the Aden Club did not speak at the committee meeting but police said they had been willing to install CCTV, hold a community open day, and agree an acceptable use contract.

However, Sheffield Council planning officers recommended planning permission should be refused because of "significant amenity issues caused by general noise and disturbance".

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This was accepted by members of the board and the city solicitor has been authorised to take enforcement action, including legal proceedings, if the club does not close.

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