The Licensing Sub-Committee of North Northamptonshire Council met on Thursday 10 September 2026 to consider an application for a new premises licence for Kings Cliffe Club. The meeting's agenda focused solely on this application, with no other items scheduled for discussion.

Application for a New Premises Licence for Kings Cliffe Club

The primary item scheduled for discussion was an application for a new premises licence for Kings Cliffe Club, located at 65 Wood Street, Kings Cliffe, PE8 6XF. The report pack indicated that the application was received on 17 July 2026 and proposed the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment, with proposed opening hours from 08:00 to 00:30 Monday to Thursday, and 08:00 to 01:30 on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

The report pack detailed that two representations were received during the consultation period: one opposing the application and one in support.

The opposing representation, from Martin Morrow, raised concerns regarding:

• Noise: Potential for increased noise from activities and customers leaving late, impacting sleep and the enjoyment of gardens, particularly during summer months when windows are open.
• Antisocial Behaviour: Concerns that extended hours and certain activities, such as boxing and wrestling, could attract individuals from outside the village, leading to issues like speeding motorbikes, public urination, and littering, which are more difficult to manage in a small village setting compared to a city centre.
• Parking: Anticipated increase in traffic congestion due to overflow parking on the road, given the club's limited parking facilities.
• Property Values: Concerns that the application's acceptance could adversely affect potential house sales for neighbours.

The report pack noted that some of Mr. Morrow's concerns, such as vehicle congestion, parking availability, and local property resale values, fall outside the scope of the Licensing Act 2003. It also highlighted that the Licensing Act 2003 requires determinations to be evidence-based and proportionate, and that a formal review process exists should issues arise after the licence is granted.

In support of the application, Councillor Simon Fairhall, Ward Councillor for Oundle, submitted a representation. Councillor Fairhall detailed the club's transition from the Kings Cliffe Ex-Servicemen's & Social Club to The Kings Cliffe Club Limited, a Community Benefit Society. This change, supported by extensive community consultation and a survey, aims to develop the club into a community hub. Councillor Fairhall stated that the proposed hours are the same as the historical licence and that the club would not operate to the full extent of these hours in practice. The support representation emphasised the club's central location, its role in bringing the community together, and the refurbishment of its facilities. It also noted that the planned activities, including daytime sessions for advice and guidance, warm and cool spaces, and arts and crafts, would complement existing village provisions.

The report pack outlined the Sub-Committee's choices in determining the application, which included granting the licence subject to operating schedule and mandatory conditions, granting with further necessary conditions, refusing elements of the application, or refusing the application in its entirety. The report also referenced relevant sections of the North Northamptonshire Council's Licensing Policy and the Secretary of State's guidance under Section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003.

The report pack included appendices containing the full premises licence application, a plan of the premises, emailed representations, and a map showing the location of the premises. The Designated Premises Supervisor named in the application was Theresa Cruse.