A popular Isle of Wight cafe has been given the green light to sell alcohol.
Owners of Betty’s Door, on Clarence Road, East Cowes, had faced resistance from a small band of neighbours, who thought allowing the cafe to serve alcohol would lead to an increase in noise and nuisance.
Approved by IWC
It was determined by the Isle of Wight council today, Monday, the cafe would be able to serve alcohol every day from 11am to 4pm — with extended hours until 8.30pm on Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve and during Cowes Week.
Speaking at the hearing, Aiden Jones, the co-owner, said it was not a place for mass drinking and they only wished to add small quantities of alcohol to the menu to offer a finer experience for loyal and visiting customers.
Maximise income during the tough times
It would also allow the cafe to maximise its income during the tough time the hospitality industry was facing, he said, focusing on providing afternoon tea.
Mr Jones said they were not a pub nor a club so did not allow loud music, but there were many other establishments in close proximity that hold existing alcohol licences until much later hours, so it was highly unfair to single out their cafe.
Objections
Among objectors was East Cowes town council, which said it had received concerns from residents so could not support it and had issues with the late-night openings proposed.
Another written objection said children may hear foul language, breathe in smoke and witness disorderly conduct from those standing outside and the building is not sufficiently soundproofed.
EHO: Licence unlikely to result in any unreasonable disturbance
Environmental health officers raised no objection to the application and said the licence was unlikely to result in any unreasonable disturbance to neighbours during the times proposed.
The committee approved the application but added two conditions which means alcohol cannot be taken outside and is only allowed to be served with food.
The committee highlighted if residents had concerns they should raise them with the authority.
Conditions
Other conditions have been agreed with police including staff training; log books; ID checks; no alcohol would be served to someone deemed to be intoxicated and a Challenge 25 policy would operate.
A 21-day period has been started should anyone wish to appeal.
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is taking part in. Some alterations and additions may have been made by OnTheWight. Ed
Image: © Betty’s Door
