A Twickenham bar has transformed from a small cafe into a "mini-nightclub" on England rugby match days, leaving neighbours desperate over noise, urination, and harassment, according to residents.
Residents Speak Out
The Scrummery, located near Allianz Stadium, has been accused of causing severe disruption since new operators took over in 2021. One resident said her dogs required medication due to "12 hours of thumping bass," while another claimed his elderly, bedridden mother was "tormented" by the noise. Other complaints included fans urinating in gardens, harassing women, and blocking pavements.
Licensing Review
Richmond Council reviewed the venue's licence on June 10 after residents requested action. The review was supported by the council's licensing team. Owners Karen and Colin Griffiths, who opened The Scrummery in 1996, said they were "heartbroken" by the management of tenants Bijal and Rupesh Soni, who took over in 2021.
Mr and Mrs Griffiths issued a Section 25 eviction notice to reclaim the venue by August 31, but the Sonis plan to challenge this in court.
New Licence Application
The Sonis applied for a new licence with stricter conditions, including stopping alcohol sales by 9pm, closing by 10pm, and monitoring noise and litter every two hours. Their barrister, Gary Grant, said the measures would resolve complaints and make the operators legally accountable. The application received 43 letters of support and 15 objections.
Residents and the Griffiths family opposed the new licence, fearing problems would persist. Mr Griffiths said: "We had all the assurances... two years on here we are, same again." The council's decision is expected in the coming days.
