To consider an application for a review of the premises licence in respect of ‘The Yew Tree, Inn, Preston on Wye, HR2 9JT’.

The Sub-Committee considered an application for a review of the premises licence in respect of ‘The Yew Tree, Inn, Preston on Wye.

The Chairman outlined the procedure for the hearing, introduced the Members and Officers and asked any interested parties to introduce themselves.

Prior to making their decision the Members then heard from the following:

·                     Representing the Licensing Authority: Miss A Poole, Licensing Officer and Mr M Pigrem, Head of Trading Standards and Licensing.

·                     Applicant for the review: Mr F Spriggs on behalf of the Licensing Authority, and Ms E Bowell, licensing assistant.

·                     Responsible Authorities: Mrs E Laughland, Principal Environmental Health Officer, and West Mercia Police (Inspector N Semper and Mr J Mooney.)

·                     Those individuals who had made relevant representations and wished to speak:  Mr M Seabourne (supporting the review), and Mr S Collins, Mr S Davey, and Ms S Montague (opposing the review).

·                     Representing the Licence Holders: Councillor PD Price, and Ms T Brandeberry, and Mr P Pugh the Premises licence holders.

The Sub-Committee retired to make its decision.   When the meeting reconvened its decision was read out to the meeting.

RESOLVED: That the current licence of the Yew Tree Inn be temporarily varied for a period of 14 days as follows: Sale of Alcohol:  Monday-Thursday (12:00-23:00), Friday (12:00-23:00), Saturday (12:00-00:00), Sunday (12:00-23:00).  (This decision is to take effect 21 days from the date of notification of the decision, subject to any appeal.)

REASONS

To emphasise the need for licensed premises to adhere strictly to their license conditions, and to promote the prevention of crime and disorder objective.

NOTES

1.            The Sub-Committee particularly considered the Guidance issued under S182 of the Licensing Act 2003 as provided with the agenda papers.  The Sub-Committee considered its options under paragraph 11.19 of the Guidance and wished to respond in a proportionate and appropriate manner.

2.            The Sub-Committee considered carefully both the carefully logged complaints received and visits carried out by officers and police.  However, it was mindful of the applicant’s summary, that this was predominately a matter where repeated breaches of the legislation should be considered.  The Sub-Committee considered there was sufficient evidence to justify a temporary modification of the licence.

3.            The Sub-Committee directed that the Council’s licensing officers should liaise with the licensees and provide them with assistance to help them lodge and progress their application to vary their licence.

4.                  The Sub-Committee emphasised the respondents’ right of appeal.  This was set out in the Decision Notice sent to the licence holders.