THE owner of a new cafe has succeeded in gaining permission to host jazz nights at her premises despite opposition from neighbours concerned about noise.

Hazel Scott, of Scott’s Cafe, on Ongar High Street, had wanted the option of hosting “soft” jazz nights seven days a week but she was granted permission only for Friday and Saturday by Epping Forest District Council.

A number of residents in Ongar High Street had complained about the application with neighbour Angus McKenzie raising a 14 signature petition against the proposal.

He wrote in a letter to the council: “We understand that business is tough. However, there are a number of residential properties surrounding 162 High Street, and we believe consideration should also be given to them and the effect the granting of this application would have on the daily lives of the residents.”

Councillor Brian Rolfe, who sat on the panel which granted the licence, said it had been a balanced case but he felt confident the compromise decision would be accepted by the majority of people.

He added: ”It was controversial in the sense it was opposed but it was a reasonable solution to come to.”