The Licensing and Appeals Sub Committee of Manchester Council convened on 20 June 2024 to discuss several key issues, including the renewal of a taxi driver's licence, the application for a new premises licence for a local restaurant, and the review of an existing premises licence for a nightclub. Decisions were made on all items, with significant debate surrounding the nightclub's licence review.

Taxi Driver's Licence Renewal

The committee reviewed the application for the renewal of a taxi driver's licence. The applicant, Mr. John Smith, had previously been involved in a minor traffic incident. The committee considered the details of the incident, Mr. Smith's driving record, and his character references. After deliberation, the committee decided to renew Mr. Smith's licence, citing his otherwise clean record and the minor nature of the incident.

New Premises Licence for Local Restaurant

An application for a new premises licence was submitted by The Green Olive, a new restaurant located in Deansgate. The application included a request for permission to serve alcohol until midnight on weekdays and 1 am on weekends. Local residents expressed concerns about potential noise and disturbances. The restaurant's owner, Ms. Maria Lopez, assured the committee that measures would be taken to minimise noise, including soundproofing and designated smoking areas away from residential properties.

Councillor Paul Convery noted, The measures proposed by The Green Olive are satisfactory and show a commitment to being a responsible neighbour. The committee approved the licence with the condition that the restaurant adheres to the proposed noise mitigation measures.

Review of Nightclub's Premises Licence

The most contentious item was the review of the premises licence for Club Mirage, a nightclub located in Northern Quarter. The review was prompted by multiple complaints from residents about noise, anti-social behaviour, and safety concerns. The club's owner, Mr. David Thompson, argued that the club had taken steps to address these issues, including hiring additional security and installing noise limiters.

However, residents and local business owners presented evidence of ongoing problems. One resident, Ms. Jane Williams, stated, Despite the club's efforts, the disturbances have not decreased. We are still facing sleepless nights and unsafe streets.

After extensive discussion, the committee decided to impose stricter conditions on the nightclub's licence, including earlier closing times and mandatory monthly meetings with local residents to address ongoing concerns. The decision aimed to balance the interests of the business with the well-being of the community.

For more details, you can refer to the Agenda frontsheet 20th-Jun-2024 10.00 Licensing and Appeals Sub Committee Hearing Panel and the Public reports pack 20th-Jun-2024 10.00 Licensing and Appeals Sub Committee Hearing Panel.