The Licensing (Hearings) Sub-Committee of Leicester Council was scheduled to consider two applications. The first was an application to transfer an existing premises licence holder and vary the designated premises supervisor for The Dog House. The second, and more significant item, was an application for a new premises licence for the Leicester Balloon Festival.

Application for a New Premises Licence - Leicester Balloon Festival

The Sub-Committee was scheduled to consider an application for a new premises licence for the Leicester Balloon Festival, proposed to be held annually in Victoria Park in Leicester. The application, submitted by Show Time Events Group Ltd, sought permission for a three-day event each June, featuring hot air ballooning, arena entertainment, stunt shows, and fireworks.

The proposed licensable activities included live music, recorded music, performances of dance, and the supply of alcohol, with proposed hours from 12:00 to 22:30 on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and alcohol sales until 22:00.

The report pack detailed numerous representations received regarding this application. The Licensing Enforcement team raised concerns about the times of operation, location, and duration of the event, relating to the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm. The Noise team also submitted a representation concerning the potential for public nuisance due to entertainment extending until 22:30 over three days. Additionally, thirteen representations were received from members of the public expressing concerns about balloons operating near residential areas and main roads, as well as issues with parking, littering, and noise from various activities. Conversely, two positive representations were received from members of the public in favour of the event.

The report outlined proposed conditions, some of which were agreed upon by the applicant and the Licensing Enforcement team, and others were put forward by the Noise and Pollution Control Team. These conditions aimed to address concerns related to noise management, crowd control, security, alcohol sales, and public safety.

The report also referenced relevant sections of the Licensing Act 2003 statutory guidance and the council's own Statement of Licensing Policy, which guide decisions on such applications. The Sub-Committee was to consider whether to grant the licence without modification, subject to conditions, exclude certain activities, refuse the proposed designated premises supervisor, or reject the application entirely.

Application to Transfer an Existing Premises Licence Holder and Vary the Designated Premises Supervisor - Dog House

The Sub-Committee was also scheduled to consider an application concerning The Dog House, located at 58-64 Braunstone Gate, Leicester. This application involved the transfer of an existing premises licence holder and a variation of the designated premises supervisor. The report for this item was contained within Appendix A of the public reports pack.