Agenda item

The Sub-Committee considered an application for the grant of a premises licence, in accordance with the provisions of the Licensing Act 2003, in respect of the premises known as Unit One, Imperial Buildings, High Street, Rotherham.

The premises were previously a confectionery retailer and the applicant was proposing to redevelop the unit into a sports bar with the provision of external tables and chairs. 

Following the submission of the application paperwork, concerns were raised by RMBC Environmental Health in relation to noise issues – these issues were discussed with the applicant and additional conditions were agreed. 

The Licensing Authority had received one representation from an interested party, which was not withdrawn and the Sub-Committee considered that representation.

The applicant’s representative referred to the intended use of the building, its limited size, location, proposed opening times and informed the Sub-Committee of the intention to only remain open till 2.00 a.m. to provide late coverage for international events only.  On the days without live coverage it was anticipated the premises would only play low volume background music and most likely close early.  Planning permission had already been sought and a café license would be applied for shortly.

The Sub-Committee was also informed consultation in and around the area had taken place, the number of intended staff to be employed at the premises, the training they would receive and the intention of the applicant company to operate the Challenge 25 scheme (relating to the sale of alcohol).

Included within the bundle of documents submitted to this hearing were the additional conditions of licence suggested by the Borough Council as Licensing Authority.

The representatives of the applicant company confirmed the company’s acceptance of these conditions, as well as the intention to promote the four Licensing objectives as defined by the Licensing Act 2003.

The representation from the interested party was given full consideration and this related to the venue opening till 2.00 a.m. seven days a week which it was believed to be excessive and the impact the premises would have on individuals that resided nearby and were in full time employment.

The Sub-Committee was satisfied that that the measures to be put in place by the applicant company were sufficient, but believed a slight alteration to some of the opening hours would be more appropriate. Members were also of the view that it would be beneficial for policies to be implemented on alternative use of plastic/glassware and door supervisors.

In conclusion, the Sub-Committee took due note of the written representation made, the agreement reached with Environmental Health and also of the fact that there had been no representations made by South Yorkshire Police in respect of this application.

The Sub-Committee considered the application for this premises licence and the representations made specifically in the light of the following Licensing objectives (as defined in the 2003 Act):-

·                The prevention of crime and disorder.

·                Public safety.

·                The prevention of public nuisance.

·                The protection of children from harm.

Resolved:- (1) That the application for a Premises Licence made by Sports Box Bars Ltd., under the provisions of the Licensing Act 2003, in respect of Unit One, Imperial Buildings, High Street, Rotherham, be granted and be subject to the following conditions:-

1.         The premises will close at 11.00 p.m. Monday to Wednesday and will close at 2.00 a.m. Thursday to Sunday, with the same times applying to licensable activity.

2.         No emptying of bins and rubbish between the hours of 9.00 p.m. and 8.00 a.m.

3.         No internal/external music or television shall be audible outside the premises between the hours of 9.00 p.m. and 8.00 a.m.

4.         No external drinking shall be permitted after 11.00 p.m.

5.         The external seating area shall be clearly defined and staff should ensure that no drinking takes place outside this area. Appropriate signage must be provided informing patrons that alcohol must not be consumed beyond the defined area.

(2)  That the applicant liaise with the Licensing Department in respect of putting a more specific policy in place regarding the use of door supervisors and the use of an alternative to glassware.