TOUGH controls on noise levels at Minehead Football Club look set to be introduced if a controversial bid to renew the organisation's public entertainment licence is successful. The club, which has been battling to get its finances back in the black, was given the go ahead last December to stage functions and events for six months. The move gave West Somerset District Council licensing chiefs the chance to assess the impact on the surrounding residential area. And next Tuesday the authority's licensing committee will be recommended to renew the licence. But this is only if a suitable sound proofing scheme is installed and regular patrols of the club's perimeter are carried out while events or public entertainments are taking place to check on noise levels. At the club's request, the licence would only be valid on Fridays and Saturdays from noon to midnight, as opposed to the temporary permission which also included Sundays to Thursdays from noon to 11pm. Six complaints relating to noise and crime and disorder issues have been received by the council since May, although some have related to private functions which the club does not need a licence to stage. The renewal bid has attracted letters of objection from five nearby residents and in addition a 70- signature petition against the proposal had been handed in. Critics cite problems of drunkenness and vandalism allegedly caused by people leaving the club, loud music from a building not designed for the purpose, and generally unacceptable disturbance in the heart of a residential area. The majority of opponents make it clear they accept that volunteers running the club have worked hard to get its finances back in order and that the organisation is providing a sporting service to the community through its football. But for most the need for proper soundproofing is paramount. The petition, organised by a group calling itself The Residents Surrounding the Recreation Ground, claims drinking outside the clubhouse is depriving many residents, including the elderly and children, of sleep and peace within their homes. "This area needs to remain a recreation area for all and be a safe environment for the many children and adults who make use of it," said the petition statement. However, councillors will be told that the police have no objection to the licence renewal, nor the fire authority, subject to conditions outlined before the temporary permission was granted last year. But ward members have called for careful consideration of the application because of the problems for neighbouring residents.