RESTAURANT owners are celebrating after winning the right to host live bands and tribute acts - despite the objections of 50 nearby residents.

South Lakeland magistrates ruled that live performances could run until 11pm at Moes Grill Kendal’s new look K Village.

Jacqueline and Dennis Clarke, the owners, said they hoped the decision would rescue their struggling business, which has a successful base in Northern Ireland.

The proprietors said they had been forced to lay off 15 Kendal staff since their family venue opened at K Village, five months ago.

In court, Mrs Clarke said: “Our takings are nothing like we hoped they would be - we aren’t covering our costs.

“Live music was going to be a main selling point for us - without it, it has been disastrous.”

South Lakeland District Council previously banned the restaurant from playing live music after concerns were raised about noise.

During two trial music events, hosted at Moes Grill last month, independent acoustic expert Steven Holmes found a 90-decibel limit on sound prevented loud disturbances reaching homes across the River Kent.

Magistrates ruled the venue could play music providing it did not exceed this limit.

In a victory against SLDC’s earlier decisions, the venue was granted permission to serve diners on the outside patio area until 8pm in winter and 10pm in summer, serve alcohol until 11.30pm and remain open until midnight.

Tina Ford, of South Road, said sound from customers eating outside would prevent residents from being able to sleep, and force individuals to keep windows closed in summer.

West Street resident Nicholas Long said a noise limiter could solve sound problems for locals but would not prevent customers causing a public nuisance when leaving the venue late at night.

Kendal magistrate Everley Buckley said: “We believe Moes Grill can operate their business without interference while protecting the quality of life of local residents.”