A PUB forced to shut due to noise complaints may lose its licence at review.

Thurrock Council will hold a review of the New Courthouse in King Street, Stanford-le-Hope following complaints from residents, police and Thurrock's environment protection team.

The council issued a noise abatement notice but following further complaints, brewery the Stonegate Group removed the licensee and closed the pub in November.

At review, the council has a series of options including changing the conditions, suspending the licence or removing it altogether.

The council received a complaint in December from an unnamed Victoria Road, resident who said: "Although I have made complaints in previous years regarding the noise levels, this past summer was the worst and most unpleasant to live with.

"There have been events in their rear garden, which is in sight and hearing line of mine, when music and TV sports have been transmitted at such volume that it is impossible to escape from it, even with doors and windows closed. And why should I shut myself indoors, on summer days when I'd actually prefer to be outside in my garden? It truly has impacted on the use and enjoyment of my home."

The resident said football, rugby, cricket and horse racing events meant they had to close doors and windows. They added: "Music events in the pub garden have been unbearable. They have gone on from 2pm until 11pm, and I have quite literally been driven from my home to seek quiet refuge with friends for the duration."

Essex Police are supporting the review on the grounds of preventing crime and disorder following a number of incidents at the premises.

A 280-signature petition was raised calling for the pub to reopen but while a new Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) is likely to be appointed, environmental health said they still had concerns.

In a submission to the committee, they said: "Following minimal engagement from Stonegate Group, Environmental Protection are concerned that when a new DPS starts their tenancy, the process of engaging with them will begin again.

"We do not have confidence that Stonegate Group will support the council in protecting residents from public nuisance."

The committee will meet on Tuesday, January 14.