Noise ban for the Graf Rumford Bar: free drinking area rejected!

Noise ban for the Graf Rumford Bar: free drinking area rejected!

The Munich Graf Rumford Bar at Rumfordstrasse 32 has been criticized for its noise complaints. As the tz reported that the operators, Niklas Mosch and Thorleif Griess-Nega, do not have sufficient control over the noise that their guests cause. This led to over a dozen complaints to the police, which, according to Rudolf Stadler from Police Inspectorate 14, no other Munich restaurant has achieved in such a short time. To counteract this, professional silencers were hired to ensure that things are quieter and crowds are reduced.

The bar is popular with Munich residents and regularly hosts exhibitions for local artists. Nevertheless, the Ludwigs- and Isarvorstadt district committee remained skeptical when the operators asked for approval for a larger free bar area and a bar garden. The decision was unanimous against the expansion - despite support from Claudia Lowitz from the Green Party, who appreciated the bar's concept but did not want to approve any additional outdoor space.

Noise protection and mediation offers

Munich has a serious problem with noise complaints from residents. As well as With pleasure explains, noise complaints from bars and clubs are a recurring issue, and bars use silencers, a special form of bouncer, to contain the noise and defuse conflicts. Since their introduction in 2010, together with the smoking ban, they have been a key measure to improve the noise situation.

In addition, there are two important contact points for conflict resolution in Munich: Akim (All-Party Conflict Management) and MoNa (Moderation of the Night). These mediation teams offer a unique service in Germany to resolve disputes between bars, residents and authorities. Residents often find the noise annoying, especially the laughter and conversations of guests. Nevertheless, the police often find themselves limited in their ability to act and can only issue warnings.

One of the big sticking points

Rising real estate prices and the expansion of pub gardens, especially after the Corona restrictions, are further driving up noise complaints. In contrast to cities like Berlin, where there is a noise protection fund to support bars, there is a lack of firm agreements or financial help in Munich. There are differing opinions on whether the city should promote a diverse nighttime culture or favor a quieter way of life.

Things seem to be wavering at the Graf Rumford Bar: the operators may get another chance to submit their application for open space in late summer, provided the noise situation improves by then. The current challenges show how important it is to have a respectful relationship between nightlife and quality of life.