The Licensing and Gambling Acts Sub Committee convened to address a premises licence application and review minutes from previous meetings. The primary focus was on an application for a new premises licence for The In-Between, a proposed micro-pub in Shirebrook. After considering representations and related documents, the committee is expected to make a decision on whether to grant, modify, or refuse the application.

Premises Licence Application: The In-Between, Shirebrook

The sub-committee convened to discuss an application for a new premises licence for The In-Between, 61 Main Street, Shirebrook, submitted by Sip & Socialize Ltd. The application requests permission for the following licensable activities:

• Live Music (indoors): Monday to Sunday, 09:00 - 23:00
• Recorded Music (indoors): Monday to Sunday, 09:00 - 23:00
• Supply of Alcohol (on and off the premises): Monday to Sunday, 09:00 - 23:00
• Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 09:00 - 23:00

The application included a risk and method statement, a fire plan and risk assessment, and an anti-social behaviour policy.

Representations

The council received two representations from members of the public, Ms Sharon James and Mr Andrew Wainman, both raising concerns across all four licensing objectives¹.

Objections

Ms James raised concerns regarding the protection of children from harm, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and reduction of crime and disorder. Her concerns included the proximity of the premises to residential properties with children, potential exposure to smoking and antisocial behaviour, noise pollution, and the risk of child abuse due to an open backyard.

Mr Wainman also raised concerns related to all four licensing objectives, citing existing antisocial behaviour issues, potential risks to children, public safety concerns related to traffic and intoxicated individuals, and the lack of reinvestment in the area to combat public nuisance.

As the proposed premises is joined and neighbours residential flats on both sides and above - with children currently in residence there a potential safeguarding risk. Sadly the children currently are exposed to unacceptable anti- social behaviours that licensing, local councillors and police have had brought to attention and struggle to resolve.

Mr Andrew Wainman

Letters of Support

The Licensing Section received eight letters of support for the application. Supporters believe the micro-pub would revitalise the area, provide a community-focused space, and offer a valuable alternative to existing venues.

Considerations for the Sub-Committee

The Environmental Health Team Manager's report outlined several factors for the Licensing and Gambling Acts Sub-Committee to consider.

• Licensing Act 2003 Objectives: The sub-committee must address the four statutory objectives when discharging its functions.
• Revised Guidance: The council must consider revised guidance issued under section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003 and the council's own licensing policy.
• Individual Merits: Each application must be considered on its own merits and in accordance with the licensing authority's statement of licensing policy.
• Conditions: Conditions attached to licences must be tailored to the individual type, location, and characteristics of the premises and events concerned.
• Planning Permission: A premises may only undertake licensable activities where it holds both planning permission and a premises licence.
• Separation of Planning and Licensing: Licensing committees are not bound by decisions made by a planning committee and vice versa.

Recommendations

The report recommends that the sub-committee consider the application and any representations received. It also suggests the sub-committee could:

1. Grant the application as applied for.
2. Grant the application, modified to such an extent as the authority considers appropriate for the promotion of the licensing objectives and any mandatory conditions.
3. Refuse the application.

Approval of Previous Minutes

The sub-committee was asked to approve the minutes of the Licensing & Gambling Acts Sub Committee meetings held on 30 August 2024 and 19 September 2024.