The Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to consider an application for a premises licence for The Hideout, located at 23 Fawcett Street, Sunderland. The committee will review representations from Northumbria Police and Sunderland City Council's Environmental Health department regarding the proposed operating hours and conditions.

The Hideout Premises Licence Application

The committee is scheduled to consider an application for a premises licence for The Hideout, located at 23 Fawcett Street, Sunderland. The application, submitted by Groove Nation Empire Ltd, seeks permission for the sale of alcohol and the provision of regulated entertainment, including recorded music, performances of dance, and other similar descriptions. The proposed hours for the sale of alcohol are Monday to Thursday from 11:00 to 01:30, and Friday to Sunday from 11:00 to 03:30. Recorded music is proposed to be available Monday to Sunday from 09:00 to 04:00.

The report pack indicates that representations have been received from Northumbria Police and Sunderland City Council's Environmental Health department. Environmental Health has raised concerns about the potential for noise disturbance to residents living in the floors above the premises, particularly if the venue operates until 04:00. They have recommended a terminal hour of 02:00, aligning with previous operating hours for the premises. Northumbria Police have submitted a holding representation, indicating a need for further discussion regarding concerns related to crime and disorder.

The Licensing Act 2003¹ outlines the four licensing objectives that the sub-committee must consider: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm. The sub-committee will review the applicant's operating schedule, which includes proposed steps to promote these objectives, such as the installation of a CCTV system, a Challenge 25 age verification policy, and measures to manage noise and customer dispersal. The committee will decide whether to grant the licence, potentially with modified conditions, exclude certain licensable activities, or reject the application.