The Licensing Sub Committee Hearing Panel of Manchester Council is scheduled to consider an application for a new premises licence for a restaurant and bar. The meeting documents outline the details of this application, including representations received from local residents and businesses.

New Premises Licence Application for 84 Old Church Street

The primary item scheduled for discussion is an application for a new premises licence for a venue described as a Restaurant & Lounge at 84 Old Church Street, Manchester, M40 2JF. The application, reference PR202607-1776522, was made by Kent Oluwabukunmi Ajayi and seeks permission for the sale of alcohol, provision of recorded music, and late-night refreshment.

The report pack indicates that the application has attracted objections from a local resident and a local business. The local resident has expressed concerns that the licence could undermine the licensing objectives, particularly the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, and the prevention of public nuisance. Specific worries include potential increases in crime, anti-social behaviour, substance misuse, traffic congestion, illegal parking, and noise, especially given the premises' location on a busy street near a primary school.

The local business also raised concerns about potential increases in crime and disorder, particularly late at night. They highlighted worries about customers congregating outside, leading to noise, disturbance, litter, and potential conflict involving intoxicated customers. The business questioned the adequacy of the operating schedule and requested consideration of conditions relating to CCTV, noise control, customer dispersal, litter management, and staff training, suggesting the proposed hours might not be appropriate due to the proximity of other licensed premises.

The report pack details the steps the applicant proposes to promote the licensing objectives, which are intended to be translated into conditions for any granted licence. It also outlines the legal framework governing hearings under the Licensing Act 2003¹, including the Secretary of State's Guidance and Manchester's Statement of Licensing Policy². The panel will consider the application, which may result in granting the licence with conditions, excluding certain licensable activities, refusing to specify the designated premises supervisor, or rejecting the application.