A BAR in Stratford which showed ‘scant regard for public safety’ has had its suspension reduced following an appeal.
Stratford District Council Licensing Panel took action against Union Bar on Guild Street earlier this year after a review of licence requirements relating to public nuisance, public safety and crime and disorder.
Concerns had been raised by police, fire crews and environmental health – to name just a few.
But the bar appealed the council’s decision for a month-long suspension.
In the run up to the appeal the licence holder accepted the points made by the council. This included employing a new premises supervisor, reducing hours for licensable activities, capacity limit, beer garden to be closed from 11pm and installing a noise limiter.
It was also agreed the Union Bar would pay all the council’s costs.
The council has now agreed to reduce the month-long suspension to two weeks.
Licensing panel Chair Susan Adams said: “This case has shown that the District Council considers licensing issues seriously as well as public safety and welfare.
“Members of the public are entitled to enjoy a night out in a safe environment and that is what the panel is keen to endorse.
“The Union Bar have worked hard to address all our concerns and have agreed to implement all the licensing conditions imposed by the panel. We recognise significant efforts have been made by the business owner to make changes in order to help prevent public nuisance and protect the safety of the public.
“The only sticking point was regarding the four-week suspension period and a compromise has been reached.”
The suspension will be start from Monday June 19.
