The Greater London Authority’s ‘night czar’, Amy Lamé

NEW nightclubs in Denmark Street are on a collision course with their neighbours with bids to extend their hours.

The Lower Third, on the site of the famous 12 Bar Club and holding 350 people, and Here, a 1,850-capacity venue, want to stay open until 4.30am from Thursday to Saturday, with a 2.30am finish on other nights.

The street, off Charing Cross Road, was traditionally known as “Tin Pan Alley” and was home to classic music shops and gig spots.

The recently opened venues, however, are owned by entertainment firm Outernet, which insists later hours means more jobs and more live music.

But scores of households have joined forces with a swathe of residents’ associations to air serious concerns over crime and disturbances, and say extra hours would make life unbearable.

The Covent Garden Community Association told the Town Hall the patch has the highest level of reported crimes anywhere in the borough, with figures showing more than 30,000 reported in the past 12 months, adding up to 77 per cent of all crimes in the borough.

The CGCA said: “This demonstrates there is already a significant crime and disorder issue and adding hours will add to this.”

People living in Centre Point House, at the eastern end of Denmark Street, said they had already been “besieged” by continuous applications.

In a letter to the Town Hall, the association stated: “Camden Council – give us a break. Anti-social behaviour, demolition and construction works have blighted our lives to breaking point since 2009 and it is ongoing.

“All have come at a massive cost to our health. The fact that 4am closing is even being considered is total madness.”

Resident Ali Negyal, who has lived in Centre Point House for a decade, said they were blighted by crime.

They said: “I have seen people urinating and even defecating on the street, and people deal drugs openly in St Giles Square.

“Someone tried to sell crack to an elderly female relative.”

They called on the council to fund a social worker to deal with the impact.

The Greater London Authority’s “night czar”, Amy Lamé, told the authority that the venues boosted the economy, provided jobs, improved the health and wellbeing of Londoners, and reduced isolation.

She added: “Covid-19 had a severe impact on nightlife venues. Extending trading hours is a priority and can help businesses trade successfully.

“Since opening, the venues have brought significant benefits. They have showcased both established and emerging talent. The team have considerable experience and a track record of hosting late-night events successfully.”

Crispin Weir, who runs the instrument shop Regents Sounds, said the venues had in place stringent security systems.

He said: “What Outernet have created is state-of-the-art venues that provide a platform for an incredible breadth of cultural events. Attending events at here and The Lower Third have always been an amazing atmosphere in a safe and well-managed environment.”

Other support has come from the campaign group the Music Venue Trust and music promoters Luck Artists.

The borough’s licensing officers say they have regularly monitored the venues and found them well run.

Over two years of operating, no noise complaints have been received.

The venues have employed former police officer Brian Hunter, who spent 30 years in the Met and worked for Westminster’s licensing team, to survey their security.

He added: “The premises were bright, modern and operating to a good standard. The cohesive working of the venue and the staff provide a safe, relaxed atmosphere.”