The Licensing Sub-Committee of Bexley Council was scheduled to consider an application to vary the premises licence for The Alma pub in Sidcup. The meeting's agenda included a review of the application for the variation of the licence, which proposed changes to operating hours, the inclusion of outdoor music, and amendments to existing conditions.

Application to Vary Premises Licence for The Alma

The primary item scheduled for discussion was an application by Traditional Hub Pub Company Limited to vary the premises licence for The Alma, located at 10 Alma Road, Sidcup, Kent DA14 4EA. The application sought to remove embedded conditions from Annex 2 of the licence, amend a condition in Annex 3 regarding admissions, and include outdoor licensable activities such as live and recorded music. Additionally, the application proposed extending the permitted hours for various licensable activities.

The report pack indicated that representations had been received from the Licensing Authority, the Environmental Health Service, and 20 other persons. These representations were to be considered by the Sub-Committee. The application was being considered in light of the Licensing Act 2003, which requires licensing authorities to promote four key objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm. The Sub-Committee was to determine the application based on these objectives, Bexley's Statement of Licensing Policy, and statutory guidance.

The report pack detailed the proposed changes, including the removal of specific restrictions related to the sale of alcohol and the employment of children, as well as amendments to admission times and noise limitations. The application also sought to include live and recorded music outdoors and extend operating hours on various days, including weekends and specific holidays.

Numerous objections were submitted by local residents and the Environmental Health Team, primarily concerning the potential for increased public nuisance due to extended hours and outdoor music. Concerns were raised about noise levels, late-night disturbances, litter, and the impact on the residential character of the area. The Licensing Authority also made representations, objecting specifically to the provision of regulated entertainment outdoors.

The report pack included appendices detailing the current premises licence, the proposed variations, a plan of the premises, and copies of the representations received. The Sub-Committee was to consider these documents and make a determination on the application, which could include granting the application, rejecting it in whole or in part, or imposing conditions.