CAMPAIGNERS against a sports bar which became renowned for punch-ups and underage drinking have claimed a victory after the venue looks set to have bolted its doors for good.

Green Tees in Billericay High Street can no longer sell booze after its owner surrendered his alcohol licence.

Justin Green, the owner and landlord, had 28 days to transfer the licence to a third party in order to keep the venue’s licence, but this deadline has now passed.

It means the building, which has indoor golf bays, a bar and dance floor, could now be transformed into either another bar, a restaurant, office or shop.

Basildon councillor responsible for resources, Phil Turner, who called for the golf-themed venue to close following a string of complaints, said: “I had a lot of people contact me concerned about incidents at Green Tees and now the licence is no more we see this as a victory.

“Whatever the venue ends up becoming, markers have now been laid down. A proprietor will know from the start that if they don’t run a straight ship then they just won’t be tolerated.

“It would be nice if a new business owner comes in and wants to turn it into a shop as there are plenty of places to eat and go out in Billericay now.

“People appreciate the charm and character of the high street and we need to keep the balance between retail and entertainment venues.”

The Echo told in April how there had been a spate of incidents at Green Tees, mostly due to fights and antisocial behaviour. Police officers also recorded 11 crimes related to the bar, which opened in December 2009.

Mr Green voluntarily handed his permit to sell alcohol back to the council before a licensing hearing was due to be held.