Agenda item

The Lead Licensing Officer presented the report and outlined the application and the decision to be taken.

The Chair invited the Applicant to put their case to the Sub-Committee.

The Applicant’s agent stated that the main purpose of this application is to add off-sales, and permit five annual community events, including the Abbots Langley Carnival, fireworks, VE Day and VJ Day celebrations, and Picnic in the Park. The agent further explained that the application aims to simplify and clarify licence terms and conditions, making operations more organised and controlled. Mr. Abbott, the Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) emphasised community support and better control over event management, particularly regarding noise concerns. He addressed objections about potential noise nuisance by highlighting the presence of a nearby licensed cricket club and the absence of noise complaints for over 20 years in his experience as DPS. Furthermore, over 30 public notices were displayed around the perimeter of the premises, with only one objection received. He also emphasised that the application stresses that the licence will enable proper control over events, including stopping music at specified times, to prevent disturbances. The agent also emphasised that Mr. Abbott is an experienced DPS, and trusted to manage events responsibly.

In response to a question raised by the Chair regarding any unruly behaviour or disturbances, Mr. Abbott confirmed that over 20 years of operating the Premises, there have been no recorded incidents of unruly behaviour or any disturbances requiring Police intervention or formal reports. Mr. Abbott emphasised strict controls on event bookings, including payment of deposits, thorough record-keeping of attendees’ addresses, and strict limits on the number of people allowed at the Premises.

Responding to a question raised regarding the exact number of events planned throughout the year, Mr. Abbott explained that this year a special party in the park planned, to commemorate the 80^th anniversary of VE Day and VJ Day. This commemorative event is not intended to be annual due to its significant costs. They are seeking a flexible licence that would allow them to hold up to five outdoor events without needing to return for additional licensing, covering both the special anniversary celebrations and the regular events like the carnival and fireworks.

Members raised questions around precautions and management strategies employed during public events that extend into open community spaces. Mr. Abbott outlined a robust safety and operational protocol in response, which include a dedicated works team, extensive CCTV coverage, and strict control over alcohol sales to maintain calm and sensible behaviour. The works team collaborates closely with local authorities, including Police and first responders, and ensures all contractors meet regulatory standards with proper insurances and hygiene certifications. Additionally, Mr. Abbott emphasised his background in the services and anti-terrorism training, highlighting a proactive approach in security. Furthermore, he explained that events are community focused, free to attend, and promoted via various channels, including banners, brochures and a website to maximise local engagement and transparency.

Members also enquired further about managing noise levels. Mr. Abbott responded by emphasising the importance of maintaining appropriate communication with local residents to address public nuisance concerns, particularly noise. He described a recent event with loud music that did not disturb the cricket players or local residents. He further elaborated that significant investments have been made, including a £48,000 renovation, featuring a 40mm insulation, double-glazed windows and doors, and soundproofing measures to reduce noise leakage. The venue adheres to licensing conditions by closing doors and windows by 23:00 to contain music noise. Mr. Abbott explained he has also conducted personal noise assessments around the Premises, confirming that noise levels were not disruptive during cricket games or events.

There were no further questions from the Applicant or the Sub-Committee.

Applicant’s sum-up

The Applicant’s agent emphasised her client’s extensive experience and thorough preparation, including a comprehensive critical incident plan and risk assessments, which were praised as exemplary, and potentially beneficial for other organisations. The agent assured that noise levels will be minimal during outdoor events, and notes that past conditions on the licence were unenforceable and have been revised for clarity and operational ease. Additionally, the Police have not objected to the application, and have only suggested some conditions related to CCTV, which have been incorporated.

Licensing Officer sum-up

The Lead Licensing Officer reiterated that the application seeks to amend the timings and conditions of the current premises licence. The officer clarified the nature of the application, and outlined the options available to the Members;

To reject the application entirely,

To propose additional or amended conditions, or

To approve the application in full, thereby granting the licence as applied for.

The Chair informed attendees that the Sub-Committee will retire to deliberate, and make a decision, which will be communicated to the Applicant within 5 working days.

Deliberations

The Licensing Sub-Committee considered the application for the variation of the premises licence in private. It took into account the representations made on behalf of the Applicant by their representatives and the Council’s Lead Licensing Officer. The Sub-Committee also considered the written representation made by the Objector, which was contained in the report although he was not in attendance.

The Sub-Committee all voted in favour of the application. The Appellant’s DPS and agents representations were strong as they addressed the experience of the DPS in handling events, it also considered that they were no previous complaints or events of unruly behaviour.

Members recommended some minor amendments to the Schedule of Conditions.

Members also considered that the Applicant’s DPS would benefit from an App which could assist with the monitoring of noise level when music is being played. It was agreed that this should be part of a recommendation.

t The Sub- Committee was therefore satisfied that adequate measures were being implemented to prevent noise nuisance to local residents, and that the application promotes other licensing objectives.

Decision

The Sub-Committee, having reference to the licensing objectives under the Licensing Act 2003, the Revised Guidance issued under section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003 (the Statutory Guidance) and the Council’s Statement of Licensing Policy 2021-2026;

RESOLVED:

To GRANT the application subject to an additional sub-paragraph to Condition 9 and a minor amendment to Condition 32 of the Operating Schedule.

The Sub-Committee has decided to grant the application in the following terms:

The Mandatory Conditions shall apply to the Licence as required by the Licensing Act 2003.

The provisions of the Operating Schedule as set out in the application (Appendix 5) shall remain subject to the following amendments:

(1)        Condition 9 shall have an additional sub-section as follows:

m. Noise patrols conducted as well as a refusal log with the name of the person conducting the patrol, the time, where the recording was taken and full details of what was observed.

(2)        Condition 32 of the Operating Schedule shall now read as follows:

‘’Windows and doors of the Premises to be closed at 23:00 hours when live or recorded music is playing within the building.‘’