The report of the Director of Planning, Building Control and Licensing is enclosed.

The Hearing Panel  considered a report of the Head of Planning, Building Control and Licensing regarding an application for a new premises license as stated above.

The Applicant’s representative addressed the Panel and explained that the Premises was seeking to convert its current Club Premises Certificate (CPC) to a Premises Licence and that in doing so would allow the club the flexibility to trade in a manner that was more suitable to a sporting club of its nature.  The Panel was informed that there was no proposal to change the operational side of the organisation but to allow it to trade and supply alcohol during the week, largely when mid-week games were taking place. The Panel was advised that it was not always able to predict when mid-week matches were likely to occur given that the club was also involved in various cup competitions that could be subject to change at short notice.

The premises indicated that they had been applying for Temporary Event Notices (TENs) to permit them to serve alcohol at mid-week games, but this was no longer practicable or financially viable for them to keep doing so.  It was also highlighted that several TENs had taken place since the start of the current season and no complaints had been made to the Licensing Authority about the events. Indeed, the Panel was advised that bonfire events held recently had attracted over 1500 customers and passed off peacefully without incident.

The Premises indicated that they wished to build the club’s reputation as a community-based club and stated that there were a few teams involving adults and children who used the club on a regular basis for matches.  The  premises  also indicated that by converting the licence this would allow for greater scrutiny and regulation of the club’s activities.  Additionally  the premises would then be required to provide formal training to staff about adhering to the licensing objectives and management more accountable, most notably the designated premises supervisor, as to how the club is run. This would invariably result in the management having to address any complaints made to them directly or from the Responsible Authorities.

The Panel then heard from residents who attended in person and online and several concerns were expressed.

It was pointed out that a childcare club was operating on certain days and the residents wished to know how the premises would ensure that children would not be exposed to persons drinking alcohol at the same time. The Applicant explained that the bar would not be open at such times. This also applied in cases where junior matches were taking place.

Another resident made the observation that if no operational changes were intended then why was it necessary to change the hours of the current licence and if games were played mid-week why could TENs not continued to be applied for.

Concerns were also expressed about the level and type of training that staff would receive to ensure that the licensing objectives, specifically protection of children  ...  view the full minutes text for item 84.