A BID to let a South Ockendon pub stay open until 1am has sparked objections from nearby residents who fear increased noise and disturbance.

The recently re-opened and renovated Greene King-owned Woodlands Edge on Broxburn Drive has applied to extend its opening hours until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays, prompting eight objections from nearby households.

Under the proposals, the pub would be able to remain open until midnight from Monday to Wednesday and until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays.

Alcohol sales would be extended until 11.30pm during the week and 12.30am at weekends, while recorded music could play until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays.

One resident said: "I live approximately 15 metres from the boundary of the pub, and I am very concerned that these extended hours will significantly increase noise disturbance late into the night.

"These changes would have a serious impact on my ability to enjoy my home, particularly during the late evening and early morning hours, affecting my sleep and quality of life."

Another resident said extending the pub's hours could lead to greater disruption from customers leaving the premises late at night and gathering outside.

"Our concerns include increased noise from customers leaving the premises late at night, greater disturbance to nearby residents, increased traffic, vehicle noise, and people gathering outside the pub late into the evening," they said.

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"We respectfully request that Thurrock Council refuses the application to extend the opening and alcohol sales hours."

Thurrock Council's environmental protection team submitted a representation, noting only two noise complaints related to the pub in recent years, on June 26, 2025, and July 29, 2017.

The pub recently reopened on August 19 following a £500,000 refurbishment aimed at creating a new destination for dining, entertainment and community events.

In a statement a spokesperson for the Woodlands Edge said: "An application has been submitted to update our licensing hours which will enable us to make greater use of the function room for both community and private events.

"We are committed to enhancing experiences for our customers in a responsible way, whilst being respectful of our neighbours and local residents."

Councillors on the authority's licensing committee can approve the application, approve it with certain conditions or reject it when they meet next Wednesday (2 September).