The Licensing and Gambling Sub Committee of Caerphilly Council convened on Tuesday, 11 June 2024, to discuss several key issues, including the renewal of a premises licence for The Red Lion Pub, the introduction of a new gambling policy, and a review of taxi licensing regulations. Decisions were made on all these matters, with significant implications for local businesses and residents.

Renewal of Premises Licence for The Red Lion Pub

The committee discussed the renewal of the premises licence for The Red Lion Pub. The pub's management had applied for an extension of operating hours and the inclusion of live music events. Local residents raised concerns about potential noise disturbances and increased traffic.

Councillor Paul Convery argued that the pub is a vital community hub and that extending its hours could boost local business. However, Councillor Jane Smith highlighted the need to balance business interests with residents' quality of life. After deliberation, the committee decided to approve the licence renewal with a compromise: the pub can extend its operating hours but must implement soundproofing measures and limit live music events to weekends.

Introduction of New Gambling Policy

The committee reviewed a proposed new gambling policy aimed at reducing gambling-related harm in the community. The policy includes stricter regulations on advertising, increased support for problem gamblers, and mandatory training for staff at gambling establishments.

Councillor David Evans emphasised the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals, stating, We have a duty to safeguard our residents from the potential harms of gambling. The committee unanimously approved the new policy, which will be implemented from 1 July 2024. The full details of the policy can be found in Appendix 1.

Review of Taxi Licensing Regulations

The committee also conducted a review of the current taxi licensing regulations. The review was prompted by complaints from both drivers and passengers regarding safety standards and fare inconsistencies.

Councillor Sarah Williams proposed the introduction of a standardised fare system and enhanced safety checks for vehicles. The committee agreed on the necessity of these measures and decided to implement the new regulations by the end of the year. Further details are available in the Report.

Other Matters

Other less significant matters discussed included minor amendments to existing licences and the approval of temporary event notices. These were resolved without extensive debate.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to monitor the impact of the new policies and regulations, ensuring they meet the community's needs effectively.