The Licensing Act Sub Committee was scheduled to consider an application to vary a premises licence for Glas Falmouth. The committee was also scheduled to address procedural matters at the start of the meeting.

Application to Vary Premises Licence at Glas Falmouth

The Licensing Act Sub Committee was scheduled to consider an application to vary the premises licence for Glas Falmouth, located at Dunstanville Terrace, Falmouth, TR11 2SW. The proposed variations included adding off-sales, amending the premises plan, and removing certain conditions from the existing licence.

The application had generated significant interest, with one representation received from Environmental Protection and four letters of representation from Other Persons opposing the application. The police and Child Protection services had indicated no objections.

The Environmental Protection department's representation focused on the potential for increased noise disturbance to nearby residents due to the proposed increase in the external area and hours of operation. They suggested conditions to mitigate noise, including restrictions on alcohol consumption in the external area after 22:30, the clearing of the external area by 23:00, and active monitoring of noise levels. They also outlined conditions for live music, specifying it should be primarily acoustic or low-level amplified, finish by 22:00 or 22:30 depending on the day, and that doors and windows should be kept closed during indoor performances.

Representations from Other Persons raised concerns about public nuisance, crime and disorder, and public safety. Concerns were voiced about noise from patrons, particularly in the evenings, and the potential for increased antisocial behaviour, littering, and vandalism. Some objectors highlighted that the proposed extension of the licensed area would encroach upon Greenbank Gardens, which they described as a public protected open space. There were also concerns that the premises had been operating outside its licensed area and conditions prior to this application.

Conversely, one representation was received in support of the application, highlighting Glas Falmouth as a locally created and run business that had transformed a derelict building into a vibrant venue. This supporter argued that allowing off-sales would encourage responsible drinking and that the music at the venue was classy and modest.

The applicant, in their response, disputed some of the representations and provided additional information, including a purported written consent from Cornwall Council Estates for the use of the council-owned green space. They also submitted noise survey results, an incidents and noise log, and videos and screenshots. The applicant stated that they had been advised by a council officer that customers could consume alcohol where they pleased if purchased on the premises, and that they had only later received conflicting guidance.

The report pack also detailed the existing premises licence conditions, which included measures for the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm. The proposed variation sought to remove conditions related to public nuisance and external areas.

The committee was scheduled to consider the application in accordance with the Licensing Act 2003, taking into account the statutory guidance and the council's adopted licensing policy.