Napier Arms, Woodford New Road

Restrictions have been imposed on a pub that had its licence reviewed after reports of lap dancing, pole dancing and rowdy behaviour.

At a hearing on Monday, the Napier Arms, South Woodford, was granted a new licence with earlier closing times at weekends and a ban on live music and dance performances.

Residents had also complained about antisocial behaviour, fighting and loud music at the pub in Woodford New Road.

Nearby resident Andrew Richardson said the pub was “another example of entertainment places running roughshod over local residents”.

Chingford and Woodford Green MP Iain Duncan Smith led calls to “shut the damn place down” in June.

But he was pleased with the review’s decision for earlier closing times.

He said: “This pub has been a nuisance for local residents for some time and I know many residents were shocked at the reports of lap-dancing.

“I hope residents will feel reassured by this news but I think it would be wise to keep a close eye on it to ensure that the previous antisocial behaviour does not creep back in.”

Pub company Enterprise Inns holds the new licence, after the departure of former licensee Cameron Russell.

At the hearing a representative said they aim to run the premises as a food pub for local residents and families.

Cllr Richard Hoskins, for Church End ward, backed residents’ calls for a review.

He said: “I’m very pleased, this is what we wanted.

“What we have got is new licensees to operate according to the new rules.

“Residents won’t be disturbed with the awful behaviour that has been going on. “We’ve basically won the right for them to get a proper night’s sleep.”

On Friday and Saturday night. alcohol sales will stop at 11.30pm and the pub must close at midnight.

New conditions were imposed requiring CCTV and preventing any strip tease, lap-dancing or nudity.

Extra checks for under-age drinkers were put in place and the car park will be locked at midnight.

A council spokesman said: “The licensing hearing was in response to investigations undertaken by the council following evidence of a number of activities taking place that weren’t permitted.”