The Licensing Hearing of Northumberland Council was scheduled to consider an application for a new premises licence for McDonald's Restaurants Ltd in Blyth. The meeting's agenda included procedural matters and the determination of this licence application.

Application for a Premises Licence for McDonald's Restaurants Ltd

The primary item scheduled for discussion was an application for a new premises licence for McDonald's Restaurants Ltd, located at 334 Cowpen Road, Blyth, NE24 5ND. The application, submitted by Shoosmiths LLP on behalf of McDonald's Restaurants Ltd, sought permission for the licensable activity of Late-Night Refreshment on Fridays and Saturdays between 23:00 and 00:00.

The report pack indicated that two objections had been received from interested parties. These objections were based on the grounds of the prevention of public nuisance. The report detailed the licensing objectives that must be considered: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm.

The applicant, McDonald's Restaurants Ltd, outlined the steps they intended to take to promote these licensing objectives. These included the use of CCTV systems, a Staffsafe™ system, comprehensive staff safety training, and a commitment to litter patrols. They also stated that their restaurants do not serve alcohol and that food and drinks are not served in glass receptacles.

The report pack also included details of the consultation process undertaken, confirming that the application had been sent to all Responsible Authorities as defined in the Licensing Act 2003. No objections were received from the Chief Officer of Police, the Fire Authority, the Body Responsible for Health and Safety Enforcement, the Local Planning Authority, the Body Responsible for Minimising or Preventing the Risk of Pollution of the Environment or of Harm to Human Health, the Northumberland Area Child Protection Committee, or the Trading Standards Authority.

The report pack referenced the Council's Statement of Licensing Policy and guidance issued by the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport under Section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003, which members were directed to consider.

The report pack also contained representations from interested parties. One representation, dated 17 February 2026, raised concerns about litter, noise, and light pollution, particularly in relation to the proposed extended hours. The individual stated that the outside lights were supposed to be off between 11pm and 5am as part of planning regulations, but were on all night on 8 February. They also noted that the inside lights were more noticeable and brighter than before, causing light pollution through their bedroom window. Concerns were also raised about vehicles' headlights contributing to light pollution.

Another representation, dated 10 February 2026, noted that the outlet had previously operated between 11pm and midnight without licensing approval, and that an application to extend hours to midnight seven days a week had been refused by a Licensing Committee in the past. This representation also highlighted issues with people congregating after 11pm, potential hazards from large vehicles parking on the footpath, and the risk of drink-driving due to the outlet being the only one available after pubs close. Concerns were also expressed about litter, noise from car engines, loud music, horns, and reckless driving, as well as light pollution.

The report pack outlined the potential determinations the Subcommittee could make, including granting the licence with conditions, excluding certain licensable activities, or rejecting the application if the licensing objectives could not be promoted by any other means.

Procedural Matters

The agenda also included standard procedural items for licensing hearings, such as the procedure at licensing hearings, the election of a Chair, and the disclosure of members' interests. Members were reminded of their obligations under the Council's Code of Conduct regarding the declaration of any Disclosable Pecuniary Interests (DPIs) or Other Registrable Interests.