The Licensing Panel of West Oxfordshire Council is scheduled to consider two applications for new premises licences. The first concerns a proposed venue called The Duchess in Clanfield, and the second relates to a Budgens store in Woodstock.

Application for a New Premises Licence: The Duchess, Clanfield

The panel is scheduled to consider an application for a new premises licence for The Duchess, located at Bampton Road, Clanfield, submitted by The Double Red Clanfield Limited. The application seeks permission for the sale of alcohol for both on and off-site consumption, as well as late-night refreshment, with proposed operating hours of 24 hours a day, seven days a week for residents and bona fide guests.

Representations have been received from local councillors and residents, raising concerns about potential public nuisance, particularly regarding noise and disturbance. Councillor Smith and Councillor Wray have submitted objections, as has local resident Sally Owen. Concerns have been raised about the suitability of the venue for late-night activities, the difficulty in policing the definition of bona fide guests, and the potential for noise to disturb neighbours. The applicant has proposed conditions, including the installation of a CCTV system and a restriction on drinks in outside areas after 11:00 PM, to address these concerns. The panel will consider these matters in relation to the licensing objectives.

Application for a New Premises Licence: Budgens Store, Woodstock

The panel is also scheduled to consider an application for a new premises licence for the Budgens store at Wincott Square, Woodstock, made by Shun Retail Store Limited. The application seeks permission for off-sales of alcohol and for the premises to be open to the public between 6:00 AM and 11:00 PM, seven days a week.

Objections have been received from local residents and Woodstock Town Council, primarily focusing on the proposed hours for alcohol sales and the potential for public nuisance. Residents have expressed concerns that the extended hours, particularly the early morning start and late evening finish, are inappropriate for a residential area and could lead to increased noise, litter, anti-social behaviour, and disturbance to residents, including those living in flats directly above the store. Specific concerns have been raised about the proximity of the store to playgrounds and a nursery, and the potential impact on children.

Woodstock Town Council has also objected due to the late opening hours and concerns for the neighbourhood. The applicant has proposed measures to promote the licensing objectives, including staff training on age verification, the installation of a CCTV system, and the display of signs encouraging customers to leave quietly. However, objectors have argued that these measures are insufficient and have requested stricter conditions, such as reduced hours for alcohol sales, limitations on the types of alcohol sold, and more robust litter management plans. The panel will consider these representations and the proposed measures.