Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: September 24, 2025

Purpose:

Content: The decision of the Committee is to grant the application.   The Committee in reaching its decision has taken into account:   ·  The evidence before it both written and oral   ·  The relevant parts of the Council’s Statement of Licensing Policy   ·  The relevant parts of the Guidance issued by the Secretary of State   Committee’s reasoning and findings are:   Committee noted that the application before it was for a coffee bar which will sell wine by waiter/waitress service to patrons who are seated with a maximum capacity of 32. The premises will offer afternoon tea and cakes as well as charcuterie /cheese boards but with no formal food offering. The Applicant intends for the premises to have a “high end” feel but will not operate as a restaurant.   The premises are located within a building that also houses a firm of Solicitors and other regulated businesses which are all operated by the Applicant.   The premises will have 5 staff plus a supervisor who will ensure that the premises run smoothly with no issues regarding noise.  Bottles will be disposed of during the day and deliveries will take place at the same time as a premises also located on the High Street as the intention is to use the same delivery Company.    The premises will only be accessed via the front with a fire exit to the rear.   Mr Ahmed stated to Committee that it is hoped that the premises will be a community asset and a different offering to other premises on the High Street.  Committee noted that the Applicant had sought to engage with local residents via a meeting but the invitation was not accepted.  The Committee accepted that whilst works had been ongoing there had been interest from passers by who had expressed positive views.   Committee noted the statement from Mr Browell on behalf of the local planning authority that a change of use would be required and it was confirmed that such an application had been prepared and would be submitted in the event that the Licence application was granted.  Committee were satisfied that the applicant had demonstrated a willingness to co-operate and engage with the Planning authority.  Committee also noted that matters raised by residents relating to potential parking issues would be assessed by planning during that engagement process and were not a matter for their consideration as part of the Licensing process.   Committee took into consideration the conditions that were agreed with Northumbria Police and the fact that the Police had felt that the imposition of those conditions satisfied all of their concerns. Committee noted  and attributed appropriate weight to the written representations of local residents but were satisfied that the conditions and style of operation outlined to them by Mr Ahmed would ensure that there would be no negative impact on the licensing objectives.  Accordingly Members unanimously decided to grant the application.