NEW powers could end a "horrendous" four years for people living near a noisy nightclub.

The government has introduced Early Morning Restriction Orders, which give police and councils the ability to stop alcohol being sold if there is noise and anti-social behaviour associated with late night premises.

Currently the authorities must go through a lengthy legal process, including a licensing hearing, before action can be taken.

The introduction of the orders has been welcomed by people living close to Funky Mojoe in High Road, South Woodford.

Nearby households have regularly complained about noise disruption from the nightspot, which opened in 2008 and stays open until 2.30am.

Barry Van Loen, 68, resident of Tempus Court in High Road, South Woodford, claims to have regularly suffered due to noise made by customers as they leave Funky Mojoe.

He said: "Hopefully the council will now take some action.

"I'm not saying get rid of the place, but closing at a sensible time would be better, so people living nearby can get some rest."

Lynda Edwards lives in sheltered housing Manor Court Lodge, which is next door to the club.

The 67-year-old said: "There has got to be evidence collected before anything can be done, so we will keep collecting evidence.

"When the council decide to act we will be behind them. We would all be pleased if something could be done because it is horrendous living here."

Cllr Richard Hoskins, who represents Church End ward, welcomed the new legislation.

He said: "I know residents across Church End want action to quieten things down.

"The council doesn't have to look around to see if there are problems in the ward, we have told them time and time again.

"This new legislation gives the council the power to act swiftly and cleanly to deal with problem premises."

A statement from the Home office said: "Many residents and residents groups have told us that the night-time economy makes certain parts of the town no-go areas at night and anti-social behaviour associated with late night drinking extends into residential communities not just around licensed premises."

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