A CONTROVERSIAL alcohol and music licence has been granted to a bar next to a church. North Herts District Council this afternoon (Thursday) granted an application for a champagne and cocktail bar on Churchyard Walk next to St Mary s Church in Hitchin.

A CONTROVERSIAL alcohol and music licence has been granted to a bar next to a church.

North Herts District Council this afternoon (Thursday) granted an application for a champagne and cocktail bar on Churchyard Walk next to St Mary's Church in Hitchin.

The application had attracted opposition from church goers who said the noise would disrupt services and worship.

The licensing and appeals committee added various conditions to the licence including a noise limiting device to control music levels and a requirement to keep doors and windows closed.