That’s a ‘fail’ somewhere… gate should have called the lounge to let them know boarding had started!
I wonder if there is middle ground here? Build confidence that when boarding is called, it’s actually started (lounge and gate to coordinate) and (b) pax who want to leave early can?
Obviously there will be some unforeseen circumstances where the lounge/gate coordination might not work.., but building that confidence in the system would be a good start!
I will get back in my box now! Seems I’m the only one miffed about getting to the gate too early!