The Premises / Personal Licences Sub-Committee of Tendring Council met on Monday 20 July 2026 to consider an application for a premises licence for The Beach Bar in Walton-on-the-Naze. The meeting's agenda also included standard procedural items.

Grant of a Premises Licence for The Beach Bar

The Sub-Committee was scheduled to consider an application for a premises licence for The Beach Bar, located at Unit 3, Seaview Court, Pier Approach, Walton-on-the-Naze, Essex, CO14 8DZ. The application, submitted by Mr William Hebborn, sought permission to sell alcohol for consumption both on and off the premises. The proposed operating hours were from 12:00 to 22:00 daily.

The report pack indicated that representations objecting to the proposed licensable activity had been received from a responsible authority and members of the public. These objections were detailed in Appendices B and C of the public reports pack.

Appendix B contained objections from residents, including concerns about public nuisance, public safety, prevention of crime and disorder, and the protection of children from harm. One objector, Layla Herring, raised issues regarding noise pollution, public disturbance, increased crime rates, littering, and the impact on the local environment and nearby residents. They also expressed concerns about public safety due to heavy pedestrian and vehicular traffic in the area opposite Walton Pier, and the potential for anti-social behaviour and alcohol-related disorder. The objector also highlighted that the premises are located within a designated conservation area and directly beneath residential flats, raising concerns about the impact on the quiet residential character of the area.

Appendix C detailed a representation from the Council's Licensing Authority, acting as a responsible authority. The Licensing Authority expressed concerns that the applicant had not demonstrated sufficient measures to mitigate the risks associated with introducing alcohol into a child-centred environment, as The Beach Bar is part of the Gold Dust Family Entertainment Centre Arcade. Specific concerns were raised about the protection of children from harm, the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, and the prevention of public nuisance. A significant concern highlighted was the apparent absence of toilet facilities for staff and customers, which the Licensing Authority deemed incompatible with the safe and lawful operation of a licensed premises. While the applicant later confirmed an outbuilding would be converted for toilet facilities, this information was provided after initial concerns were raised. The Licensing Authority also noted the proposed installation of a serving hatch, which was only disclosed later in the process.

The report pack outlined the relevant legislation, including the Licensing Act 2003¹, and Tendring District Council's Statement of Licensing Policy², which the Sub-Committee was to consider when making its determination. The report also referenced the Statutory Guidance issued by the Secretary of State under Section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003³.