A nightclub's dance licence was yesterday "on a knife-edge" after a judge warned it must clamp down on disturbance and nuisance to local residents. "Scruples" in the Kingston Hotel, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin, has until the end of next month to resolve the problems which led residents of Adelaide Street to object to the renewal of the annual licence.
Judge Peter Smithwick dismissed their objection but said he was giving "a stern warning" that not only was the hotel's dance permit in jeopardy but its drinks licence could be at risk if problems were not addressed.
The Kingston claimed the noise came from other establishments including a takeaway and another nightclub. It had taken a number of steps to try to alleviate the noise problems. But residents produced video evidence showing drunken patrons shouting, laughing and singing as they left the disco.
Judge Smithwick said the new licensing year starts at the end of next month and if matters had not improved, this licence would be in jeopardy.