Agenda and draft minutes

There were no apologies for absence.

There were no declarations of interest.

It was confirmed that all items of business were in Part I and would be considered in public.

None.

With the agreement of the Chair and the Legal Advisor, a revised plan of the premises was submitted for the consideration of the Committee.

At the request of Democratic Services, a nomination for Chair was moved and seconded. It was agreed that Councillor Darran Davies would chair the meeting.

INTRODUCTION

Daniel Ferrer, Licensing Team Manager, presented the application which sought approval for the granting of a new Premises Licence in respect of H & H News & Wine, 6-10 High Street, Harefield UB9 6BU. It was noted that the Application Form and Plan were appended as Appendix 1 to the report. The application had attracted two representations both from local businesses – Costcutter and Harefield Wine. Members heard that here had been no representations received from Ward Councillors or from any of the Responsible Authorities.

In response to questions from Members, it was confirmed that no representations had been received from the responsible authorities including ASBET and the Police.

APPLICANT

The applicants, Mr and Mrs Mehta, were in attendance and were represented by Charles Merrett Counsel. Members were informed that the applicants were already successfully running two premises; one in Rickmansworth which had been in operation for nine years and one in St Albans which had been in operation for one year. It was confirmed that no complaints had been received in respect of either of these businesses which were both licensed to sell alcohol for consumption off site.

The Sub-Committee heard that, were the licence to be granted, the premises in question would operate as a SPAR shop. An amended plan had been submitted. CCTV would be in operation at the premises both internally and externally. It was confirmed that four staff members would be employed – two on a part-time basis and two on a full-time basis. Two staff members were personal licence holders. A number of conditions had been proposed as set out in paragraph 2.6 of the officer’s report.

The applicant’s representative noted that no Members’ Enquiries had been submitted, or complaints raised by responsible authorities in respect of the application. Members were advised that the applicants had an excellent track record. It was noted that the representations received had been submitted by other businesses in the area and Members heard that all the concerns raised would be addressed by way of the conditions proposed in the application.

In response to their requests for clarification, the Sub-Committee was informed that the alcohol counter would be located at a considerable distance from the entrance and exit to prevent theft. Two or three staff members would also be present at all times to act as a deterrent.

Members sought further clarification regarding engagement with local residents. It was confirmed that the applicants had lived and worked in the area for some 20 years hence were well acquainted with the local community.

In response to further questions from Members in respect of the avoidance of crime and disorder, the Sub-Committee heard that 16-18 CCTV cameras would be in place at the  ...  view the full minutes text for item 95.