Agenda and minutes

The Chair introduced the Members of the Sub Committee and welcomed everyone to the hearing.

The Senior Licensing Officer outlined the purpose of the hearing, which was an application to vary the Premises License in respect of Panache – 26 Bridge Street. The application was to extend to opening hours for licensable activities from 0300hrs to 0600hrs and the removal of the condition on the license that all drinks must be served in Polycarbonate vessels.

The Sub Committee were informed that objections had been received from Sargeant Worthington, Northamptonshire Police, on the grounds of Licensing Objective of the Prevention of Crime and Disorder and from Mr Paul Mallard, Senior Environmental Health Officer) on the grounds of Prevention of Public Nuisance.

Application for Variation to a Premises License

Mr Singh (in support of the applicant) reported that he had met with PC Bryan, Northamptonshire Police, who had commented he would be content with a 4am closure, with the last admission being at 3am. Mr Singh explained that they had applied for the variation as there was an intention to refurbish the venue and to make in more ‘boutique’ style and noted that the capacity of the premises was approximately 130 people. However, whilst happy for an extension until 4am, it was argued that the final admission for people should be 3.30am as this would allow bar staff to drink prior to leaving after their shifts. It was noted that their current license did not allow for off sales and that the license did not allow for live music. He explained that the premises did not have the facilities or capacity for live music and commented that the establishment appealed to a more mature clientele.

In response to a question asked by the Solicitor, Mr Singh commented that he wanted to get rid of the condition of having to serve alcohol in Polycarbonate vessels as this was a condition that was in existence prior to them taking over the premises and that his customers were purchasing expensive drinks that were being served in ‘plastic glasses’.

Representations by the Objectors

Sgt Worthington confirmed that his colleague, PC Bryan, had met with the owners to discuss the variation and commented that they were happy for the removal of the condition relating to Polycarbonate Vessels. However, he stated that the 3am final admission was in line with other premises in the area and that the police were focused on the reduction of ‘Bar-Hopping’, whereby people go from bar to bar which can generate friction. It was noted that between 0300 and 0500hrs there was an increase of 8.9% in Crime and Disorder. In response to questions asked by the applicant, Sgt Worthington confirmed that closing times around the town centre premises were staggered and that other premises had conditions on their license not to allow admissions after 3am.

Paul Mallard commented that the loud noise emanating from premises on Bridge Street was already a cause for concern for nearby residents and explained in detail the  ...  view the full minutes text for item 1.