There were some positive opinions – over the late-night opening offering “a relaxed and responsible setting for late-night refreshment and food”
A popular London cocktail bar has applied to stay open until 2.30am, seven days a week. DIVE on Blandford Street said it also wants to play recorded music until 2am, according to an application before Westminster City Council.
The basement bar, which describes itself as an “intimate, elevated space” where friends and family gather, according to its website, is currently open until midnight Monday to Thursday and until 12.30am on Friday and Saturday. On Sunday, it shuts at 11pm.
The application received mixed responses – with some angered residents arguing that it will lead to more noise and anti-social behaviour. One objector said it would create an “unbearable situation” for residents on Chiltern Street and reduce the number of “quiet hours” to four a day.
Another wrote: “While residents might expect some noise during the day from shops and cafes below our homes, late and overnight hospitality, and the noise disturbance and nuisance it brings, is not acceptable in a predominantly residential area and should not be licensed.”
Marylebone councillors, where the club resides, have also objected. A group letter sent to the council said the opening times were “too far beyond Core House” of midnight and said there “needs to be a balance in consideration of residents”.
The council’s own environmental health team said the application would likely cause an increase in public nuisance and impact on public safety.
A fourth said the noise “will wake up the babies, disturb residents and make for more crowds” while a fifth said they were “horrified” that such an application had been submitted. “Sincerely hope that there are considerable objections and that your team sees how unreasonable this is,” they wrote.
The application also received letters of support. One supporter said the owners were “responsible and well-managed operators”. Another said the 2am finish would allow the club to offer “a relaxed and responsible setting for late-night refreshment and food” in the area.
The application received 10 objections and five letters of support. DIVE is run by Triangle Orchestra Limited. The site was formerly known as Purl London. DIVE is located below a café.
Westminster City Council will review the application on Thursday, February 26.
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