A GRAYS pub could face licence restrictions or even closure after complaints about anti-social behaviour, noise and suspected criminal activity triggered a formal review.

Thurrock Council's Licensing Sub-Committee is due to consider the future of The Bull Gastropub in Dock Road, Little Thurrock, at a hearing on Thursday (6 August) following a request to review the venue's premises licence.

The application was submitted by a local resident, who alleges there have been "ongoing and escalating incidents of anti-social behaviour, disorder, excessive noise, suspected criminal activity and concerns of underage persons attending the premises".

The review has prompted a divided response from the community. During the consultation period, 13 submissions were lodged in support of the review, while 12 representations were made opposing it.

The Bull is one of the area's best-known hospitality venues and is marketed as having the largest pub garden in Thurrock, featuring around 50 outdoor tables, an outdoor bar and a children's play area.

Following the review, councillors have a range of powers available to them. They can decide to take no action, impose additional licensing conditions, remove the designated premises supervisor, suspend the licence for up to three months, or revoke the licence altogether.

The hearing will consider whether the premises is promoting the four key licensing objectives: preventing crime and disorder, ensuring public safety, preventing public nuisance and protecting children from harm.

Responding to the allegations, managers at the pub said they were taking concerns raised by residents seriously.

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A spokesperson for the pub said: "We take the concerns of the residents extremely seriously and are doing everything in our power to address them."

Additional evidence has also been submitted by Essex Police, Trading Standards, planning officers and environmental protection officials as part of the review process.

The licensing sub-committee will hear representations from all parties before deciding whether any changes should be made to the pub's licence.

Recent stories:

Councillors step in: https://thurrock.nub.news/news/local-news/two-arrested-in-connection-with-violent-scenes-at-borough-pub-councillors-step-up-and-say-they-will-be-keeping-a-close-eye-on-venue-300996

Brawl at the Bull: https://thurrock.nub.news/news/local-news/weapons-were-seen-in-brawl-close-to-borough-pub-after-fight-broke-out-and-cars-were-damaged-police-are-investigating-and-have-called-for-witnesses-300056

Woman seriously hurt: https://thurrock.nub.news/news/local-news/police-issue-appeal-as-probe-continues-into-pub-incident-that-left-woman-with-serious-injuries-300987