Agenda item

Prior to the presentation of the report, the Council’s Solicitor explained that although four Sub-Committee members were present to hear the application, only three of those members would make the decision.  The additional member was present to hear the application in order that, in the event that a member had to retire due to unforeseen consequences, the additional member could substitute, thereby avoiding the necessity to rearrange the hearing. 

The Council’s Solicitor then outlined the procedure for the hearing.

The Licensing Team Leader presented the report for the grant of a premises licence for Crook Convenience Store, 10 North Terrace, Crook, Co. Durham, DL15 9AZ (for copy see file of minutes).  

The Sub-Committee noted the application for licensable activity of the supply of alcohol for consumption off the premises, from 7.00am to 11.30pm, Monday to Sunday inclusive.  The Licensing Team Leader highlighted that during the consultation period, two objections had been received from local residents who were unable to attend the Sub-Committee meeting, however, their representations were included at Appendix 5 of the report.  No comments on the application had been received from the Responsible Authorities.  The Sub-Committee noted the additional conditions which had been agreed by the Applicant, following mediation with Durham Constabulary.

In addressing the Sub-Committee, the Applicant informed the                              Sub-Committee that he had managed his business which comprises 4 shops, for over 10 years.  He confirmed that he never sold alcohol to persons underage and stated that he and his wife work approximately 17-18 hours per day, overseeing activities by visiting each of their shops, throughout the day.  The Applicant explained his plans to move the post office to the larger premises at Crook Convenience Store as the location has improved access and parking facilities.  Furthermore, he intends to employ approximately 8-10 new members of staff at the premises. The Applicant concluded by stating his actions would benefit the community and he added that he had, and will continue to, comply with authorities.

In response to a question from the Sub-Committee with regard to the incidents of anti-social behaviour raised in the representations, the Applicant responded that a group of children aged approximately 8 years old were the cause of the problems.  The Applicant informed the Sub-Committee that he had taken steps to tackle the problems through contacting the children’s parents and he clarified that 2 CCTV cameras will be situated at the front of the shop.

The parties were given the opportunity to sum-up and the Applicant remarked that he was acting with the best of intentions and he confirmed he had nothing further to add.

At approximately 10.10am, the Sub-Committee Resolved to retire in private to determination the application. After re-convening at approximately 10.20am, the Chair delivered the decision of the Sub-Committee.

In reaching their decision the Sub-Committee considered the report of the Licensing Team Leader and the representations from the Objectors, Responsible Authorities and the Applicant.  Members also took into account the Council’s Statement of Licensing Policy and Section 182 Guidance issued by the Secretary of State.

RESOLVED:

That the application for the Premises Licence be granted, subject to the conditions that were consistent with the operating schedule, the mandatory conditions under the Licensing Act 2003 and with the conditions that had been mediated with Durham Constabulary.

The PremisesLicence was granted for the following: