The Licensing (Premises) Sub-Committee of Buckinghamshire Council is scheduled to consider an application for a new premises licence for a craft beer bar. The committee will also review the procedural rules for virtual licensing sub-committee hearings.

New Premises Licence Application for 'Have I Got Brews For You'

A significant item on the agenda is the consideration of an application for a new premises licence for 'Have I Got Brews For You', located at 16 Cornwall Place, Buckingham MK18 1SB. The application, submitted by Have I Got Brews For You 3 Limited, seeks permission to sell alcohol both on and off the premises, with proposed opening hours from 12:00 to 00:00 Monday to Thursday, 12:00 to 01:00 on Fridays and Saturdays, and 12:00 to 23:00 on Sundays.

The report pack indicates that relevant representations have been received from four individuals. These objections primarily relate to the licensing objectives concerning the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm. Concerns have been raised about potential anti-social behaviour, noise, and the impact on local residents, particularly those living opposite the proposed venue.

The applicant, represented by Andrew Bodman, has responded to these objections, stating their commitment to operating a craft beer bar with both on and off sales and highlighting their experience with similar establishments. They have indicated a willingness to reduce Friday and Saturday hours to midnight. The report also notes that the Chief Officer of Police has raised no objection to the application.

The Licensing Officer, Kerryann Ashton, has provided observations on the representations, noting that concerns are primarily focused on the proposed timings for the sale of alcohol and their potential impact on anti-social behaviour, public nuisance, and the protection of children. The committee will need to consider the Council's adopted Licensing Policy¹ from 2022 and national guidance issued by the Home Office under Section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003² when making their determination.

The committee has several options available, including granting the licence with conditions, excluding certain licensable activities, refusing the application in whole or in part, or granting the licence with different conditions for different parts of the premises.

Virtual Licensing Sub-Committee Procedural Rules

The committee is also scheduled to note the hearing procedure rules and virtual licensing sub-committee procedural rules. These rules, outlined in the addendum document, detail the procedures for conducting hearings remotely via Microsoft Teams. They cover aspects such as prior notification, attendance requirements, the order of business, and the process for making decisions. The rules emphasize the importance of ensuring that all parties can participate and that proceedings remain open to the public where possible, even in a virtual format.