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, Sea View Court, Pier Approach, Walton-on-the-Naze, Essex. The application, submitted by Mr William Hebborn, sought permission to sell alcohol for consumption both on and off the premises, with proposed opening hours of 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 focused on several licensing objectives:

• Prevention of Public Nuisance: Concerns were raised about potential noise pollution, public disturbance, and littering, particularly given the prominent seafront location and proximity to residential properties. Objectors noted that the applicant's existing nearby catering units had previously been associated with issues such as rubbish and noise.
• Public Safety: The area opposite Walton Pier experiences significant pedestrian and vehicular traffic. Objections highlighted concerns about potential crowd management issues and increased hazards on the public highway, especially if seating were to be placed on the public highway. The lack of dedicated restroom facilities at the proposed premises was also a significant concern, with the suggestion that customers would need to use public toilets some distance away.
• Prevention of Crime and Disorder: The application for a daily alcohol licence was seen as creating a high risk of late-night anti-social behaviour and alcohol-related disorder in an area that is already a busy focal point for visitors.
• Protection of Children from Harm: Pier Approach is described as a primary route for families and young children visiting Walton Pier and the beach. Concerns were raised that an open bar in this location could expose minors to anti-social behaviour and that residents living in the flats above the proposed bar might be disturbed by noise and activity. The risk of broken glass in an area frequented by barefoot children was also highlighted.

The Licensing Authority, acting as a Responsible Authority, submitted a representation outlining concerns that the applicant had not demonstrated sufficient measures to mitigate the risks associated with introducing alcohol into a child-centred environment. They specifically noted the absence of toilets for staff and customers as a significant issue incompatible with the safe and lawful operation of a licensed premises. The Licensing Authority stated that they would not support the grant of a licence unless adequate customer toilet facilities were installed and accessible.

The report pack also detailed the minutes from the previous meeting of the Premises / Personal Licences Sub-Committee held on 13 May 2026. This meeting had considered two applications:

• Variation of a Premises Licence at Highfield Grange Holiday Park, London Road, Clacton-on-Sea: This application sought to extend permitted times for outdoor entertainment and remove/amend certain conditions. The report indicated that the Sub-Committee heard representations from the applicant and objectors regarding noise levels and communication.
• Grant of a Premises Licence at Alresford Hall, Ford Lane, Alresford: This was an application for a limited period licence for a historical re-enactment event organised by The Sealed Knot, involving the sale of alcohol, live music, and performances. The report noted that the application had been reviewed by the Tendring Safety Advisory Group, and objections had been received from members of the public.

The agenda for the 20 July 2026 meeting also included standard procedural items such as the election of a Chairman, noting apologies for absence, and confirming the minutes of the last meeting.