The police, businesses and residents in Upper St James’ Street in Newport have come out in objection to a premises license application in the street.
The application at a yet-to-open burger bar, has attracted objections from a number of businesses and residents who say they’re concerned that crime and disorder will occur in the area “as a result of the proposed licensable activities”.
Police object strongly against license
The Police stated in their representation to the council that as the applicant has previous involvement with selling ‘legal highs’, they believe the premises will “become an outlet for the sale to young persons of ‘legal highs’ and potentially, illegal drugs”.
They also raised concern at the possible increased risk of crime, disorder and public nuisance, and objected to the late licensing during busy times for them such as bank holidays and festival periods.
Residents’ concerns
Consideration for the neighbouring funeral director was raised by several of the objectors, suggesting the late license would severely impact the serene atmosphere that is essential to clients.
Many also expressed worries for the protection of children (namely the students at the nearby sixth form college) who they say may be encouraged into under-age drinking.
The applicant has stated that they will not to serve customers who appear to be aged under 21 years and unable to produce satisfactory proof of age.
Conditions proposed by environmental officers
The Environmental Officer has not objected to the license outright, but raised concerns over use of the rear courtyard by customers.
They believe the noise from customers could cause a disturbance to residential properties above the adjacent premises and has suggested two conditions be added to any approval.
The first being that the courtyard should not be used (other than for those smoking tobacco) between the hours of 8pm-midnight.
The other condition relates to the control of litter, advising that “any litter, including wrappers, broken glass and smoking litter, arising from the premises and from customers in the immediate vicinity, including that on any adjoining footpath or street will be collected and removed as frequently as necessary and in any case within one hour of the premises closing for that trading day.”
The sub-committee meeting is being held on 24th October to consider the license application.
The report is embedded below for your convenience.
LICENSING (DETERMINATIONS) SUB-COMMITTEE
Image: rob_rob2001 under CC BY 2.0
