Agenda item

6.1

It was moved by Councillor Karen McGowan, and seconded by Councillor Andy Bainbridge, that approval be given to the Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003, as set out in the report of the Executive Director, Place, now submitted.

6.2

Whereupon, it was moved by Councillor Douglas Johnson, and seconded by Councillor Ruth Mersereau, as an amendment, that the Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003, as set out in the report, be approved with the following modifications:-

1.  The retention of the existing policy statement on areas nearing levels of stress, namely -

“The licensing authority is particularly concerned about the following areas:

Area

Reasons for Concern

West Street and Division Street

The concentration of late night alcohol licensed premises and levels of crime and disorder, as well as the proximity to residential properties in some cases.

West Street, Devonshire Street and Division Street

The number of off licences and the related problem with street drinking and public nuisance in this area.

Broomhill

The number of late night refreshment premises in close proximity with patrons causing noise and disturbance when migrating between destinations.

Ecclesall Road

The number of liquor licensed premises, especially those with outside drinking areas, and late night refreshment premises in close proximity to residential dwellings causing noise and disturbance.

Applicants making applications for premises licences in these areas are advised to carefully think about the licensing objectives and the above areas of concern.

Applications for late night premises in any area of the city are expected to demonstrate a commitment to a very high standard of management and ensure that the operation of the premises will not create a public nuisance nor result in additional crime, disorder and antisocial behaviour in the area.

The licensing authority continues to monitor the areas it considers are nearing levels of stress, and will consider implementing a cumulative impact policy should the evidence show a major problem that cannot be tackled any other way.

In determining any applications for these areas, the licensing authority (sub-committee) will still take care to ensure the Guidance to the Act is applied and consider the merits of all individual cases.”

2.  The addition of a policy on knife crime in order that applicants are required to consider proportionate and practical measures to reduce knife injuries in the night-time economy such as through door searches and entry systems for the detection of metal blades.

3.  The addition of a policy on sexual harassment and domestic abuse in order that applicants are required to consider a proportionate and practical approach to protecting members of the public from sexual harassment, and providing a confidential and safe way of exiting the building safely to members of the public who are concerned for their own safety.”

6.3

After contributions from five other Members, the amendment was put to the vote and was negatived.

6.4

The original Motion was then put to the vote in the following form and carried:-

RESOLVED: That approval be given to the Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003, as set out in the report of the Executive Director, Place, now submitted.