notification of chairman and outline of procedure

The Chairman opened the meeting by introducing the Sub-Committee and the Officers present. He explained that the Sub-Committee would consider two reviews in turn and detailed the procedure that would be followed. The review of the Premises Licence for The Shire Horse Public House, Canterbury Road, Sittingbourne would be heard first, followed by a review of a Personal Licence.

declarations of interest

No interests were declared.

part b minutes for information

review of premises licence under the licensing act 2003 - the shire horse public house, canterbury road, sittingbourne

Mr Thomas, representing the Applicant, presented his case. He explained the background of the tenancy of The Shire Horse to the Panel. He emphasised that Enterprise Inns, who owned the freehold, had not been aware of any of the problems that had existed whilst the previous tenant had been in occupancy. He told the Panel that if Enterprise Inns had known about these problems they would have tried to rectify them earlier. A new tenant was in line to take over the licence and as such Mr Thomas considered that the review should take this into account and not be influenced by previous activities. He outlined new ideas, including becoming a food-led venue, and considered that these would attract a more acceptable clientele. The tabled paper of outline conditions was referred to. The new tenant and Enterprise Inns were happy to liaise with local residents, the Police and relevant authorities.

In response to a question, Mr Thomas confirmed that there would be a change in the style of management; there would be more intervention and that he encouraged regular meetings with the Police and the Council's Licensing Officer.

Mr Neale, the Chairman of the Local Neighbourhood Watch Group spoke and asked questions on behalf of the objectors. He emphasised that local residents wanted a vast improvement to the environment and safety in surrounding streets. In response to a question he was told that the likely cost of refurbishment was £100,000.

In response to a question from a Ward Member and concern regarding absentee landlords, Mr Thomas confirmed that Enterprise Inns would take a pro-active approach with increased dialogue.

Members further discussed the review, in particular concerns regarding regulated entertainment and its conduciveness to a food-led establishment. Mr Thomas considered it necessary to remain flexible as to what the Public House offered in amenities, both to the public and to the tenant they hoped to attract.

The Chairman then invited local residents to make comments on the variations to the licence.

The Sub-Committee adjourned to make their decision at 11:20am. Members of the Sub-Committee, the Assistant Solicitor, the Licensing Officer and the Democratic Services Officer left the meeting and returned at 11:40am, when the Sub-Committee reconvened.

local government (access to information) act 1985

review of personal licence under the licensing act 2003