A new takeaway in Bath has secured permission to serve customers late into the night despite objections from local residents. Diamond Kebab & Pizza, which opened just 10 weeks ago at the corner of Moorland Road, was granted a license to operate until 2:30am on Fridays and Saturdays by Bath and North East Somerset Council.
The area, known as Oldfield Park, is popular with students who frequently seek late-night food options. However, long-term residents and families living in the predominantly residential neighbourhood expressed concerns that extending opening hours could lead to increased disorder from people returning from nights out. Although complaints referenced general disruptive behaviour in the area, no specific incidents involving the takeaway were cited.
Resident Will Sandry described Moorland Road as “a very residential area” during the licensing hearing on June 18. He acknowledged that the application wasn’t expected to increase crime but feared it might contribute to disorderly conduct late at night.
READ MORE: Heritage Railway Charity Faces Multiple Thefts, Suffering Significant Setback
READ MORE: ‘Revised Cul-de-Sac Plans Approved for Bungalow Garden Despite Concerns’
In response, the applicant assured the committee that strict measures would be implemented to minimize noise and disturbances. These include CCTV surveillance, signage urging customers to leave quietly and respect neighbours, keeping doors and windows closed after 11pm, and conducting deliveries by car instead of noisy mopeds. Music played over car stereos outside the premises would also be turned off after 11pm.
Owner Abdullah Argunaga explained that the decision to seek later opening hours was driven by high rent and business rates. Although they initially applied for a license until 3am, they were willing to accept earlier closing times – 1am on weekdays and 2am during weekends.
The licensing committee ultimately approved the takeaway to open until 1am Sunday through Thursday and 2:30am on Friday and Saturday, aligning with operating hours of the nearby Domino’s Pizza. Committee chair Steve Hedges, who disclosed a friendship with one of the objectors, emphasised a fair approach to the decision. He wished the owner success as the hearing concluded.