Issue - meetings

The Chairman summarised the procedure for the Sub-Committee hearing. All those present were introduced or introduced themselves.

The Senior Licensing and Enforcement Officer presented his report covering an application for a new premises licence under Section 17 of the Licensing Act 2003. The Sub-Committee was advised that on 26 June 2021, Beer Shop Ltd submitted an application for a new premises licence at 26A Northgate End, Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire, CM23 2EU. The application - which had been revised since the report was produced, following discussions with the Responsible Authorities - sought permission for the supply of alcohol for consumption both on and off the premises, Monday - Sunday, 10:00 – 22:00 with an extension to 01:00 on New Year’s Eve.

Members were advised that the applicant had proposed a number of steps that could be taken to promote the four licensing objectives, including, but not limited to the prevention of rapid and excessive drinking, a CCTV system, a policy that all those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and a Challenge 25 policy. The applicant had agreed further conditions with Environmental Health and Hertfordshire Constabulary.

Members were advised that representations had been received from two residents acting as interested parties, which engaged the prevention of public nuisance and the prevention of crime and disorder licensing objectives. The representations related to potential nuisance for neighbours and anti-social behaviour.

The Senior Licensing and Enforcement Officer said that if the Sub-Committee believed that the licensing objectives would not be undermined then the application should be granted. Members were advised that if they believed that the application would not promote the four licensing objectives, they should take appropriate and proportionate action to address these concerns. The Sub-Committee could attach conditions, limit the hours or restrict licensable activities. The application should only be refused as a last resort and the Members’ decision should be evidence based, justified, appropriate and proportionate.

The applicant’s representative briefly introduced the application. The premises had formerly been a retail unit which had fallen into disuse, which would be refurbished by the applicant if the application was granted. The premises would be a mixed use bottle shop and nano-brewery, with customers being able to sit in and taste or purchase beer to consume on site. Most of the premises’ business would be generated by off sales or online orders for dispatch. The maximum capacity of the premises was 50 and toilets were available for customers.

Members were advised that, as well as the additional conditions agreed with the responsible authorities, the applicant had offered two further conditions, relating to a written dispersal policy and making a telephone number available at the front of the premises for residents.

The applicant’s representative said that the applicant and his business partner had two other premises in Hertfordshire, with eight years of experience. These premises had been run responsibly and in accordance with the conditions of the respective licenses and this would also be the case at this premises. The  ...  view the full minutes text for item 26