Agenda item

To consider the report of the Assistant Chief Executive (Corporate Governance) on an application for the grant of a Premises Licence in respect of premises situated at Vinery Avenue, Leeds LS9 and trading as East End Park WMC

(Report attached)

The Sub-Committee, having regard to the Licensing Act 2003, the Statement of Licensing Policy and the Statutory Guidance, considered the application and the written submissions before them relating to an application for the grant of a new Premises Licence in respect of premises trading as “East End Park Working Men’s Club”, Vinery Avenue LS9.

Representations had been submitted by West Yorkshire Police (WYP) and by LCC Environmental Protection Team (LCC EPT). The applicant had agreed to the measures proposed by the responsible authorities prior to the hearing and those representations had subsequently been withdrawn.

A number of local residents had also submitted representations and signed and submitted a petition objecting to the application. Of those, only Mr J Greer attended the hearing. The Sub Committee resolved to consider the written submissions of the other residents and proceed in their absence.

The Sub Committee heard first from Mr J Greer who outlined the proximity of residents to the premises and described the recent history of anti social behaviour and drunkenness in the area which he attributed to the Club. Mr Greer also stated that residents had tried to raise their concerns with the management of the Club but no action had been taken.  He highlighted his concern that additional functions at the Club would lead to an increase in anti social behaviour and disturbance to local residents.

The Sub Committee then heard from Mr A Nixon, solicitor on behalf of the applicant who was accompanied by Mr J Murtagh the Designated Premises Supervisor. Mr M Bradley and Mr R Black, solicitors, were also in attendance.

Mr Nixon addressed the comments made by the objectors and referred to the hours and activities currently afforded to the Club through the existing Club Premises Certificate. It was noted that the new Premises Licence, if granted, would reduce the hours of operation. Mr Nixon outlined the measures agreed with LCC EPT and WYP which he believed, with the reduction of hours and new management team, were appropriate steps to address the licensing objectives.

The Sub Committee during their deliberations required clarification regarding the opening hours from the applicant. Mr Murtagh stated that no alcohol sales would be made after 23:00 hours and it was his intention to close the premises at 23:30 hours. The parties were advised this altered the application however the applicant confirmed this was his intention.

The Sub Committee noted the written representations and carefully considered the submissions made at the hearing including clarification of the opening hours.

Members, having regard to the agreements reached and the hours as amended at the hearing, were satisfied that the grant of the application would not undermine the licensing objectives and

RESOLVED – To grant the application as applied for, with the exception of the sale of alcohol which will cease at 23:00 hours.

·  The seasonal variations requested for the sale of alcohol are also granted

·  The measures suggested by WYP and LCC EPT and agreed by the applicant are imposed as conditions on the new Premises Licence

·  The applicant was reminded to surrender the existing Club Premises Certificate on receipt of the new Premises Licence

Members took the opportunity to advise residents that the DPS had offered contact to them and to note the stringent controls now put in place through the conditions agreed with the responsible authorities