The Alcohol & Gambling Licensing Sub-Committee of West Northamptonshire Council met on Tuesday, 18 June 2024, to discuss the licensing application for Prahova, a new restaurant and bar in Northampton. The committee approved the application with specific conditions to address public safety and noise concerns.

Licensing Application for Prahova

The primary focus of the meeting was the licensing application for Prahova, a new restaurant and bar located in Northampton. The applicant sought permission to serve alcohol until midnight on weekdays and 1 am on weekends. Several local residents expressed concerns about potential noise and public disorder.

Public Safety and Noise Concerns

Residents voiced their worries about the late operating hours, fearing it could lead to increased noise and anti-social behaviour. One resident stated, The proposed hours are too late for a residential area and will disturb our peace. The committee acknowledged these concerns and discussed various measures to mitigate them.

Conditions Imposed

To address the issues raised, the committee approved the application with the following conditions:

• Installation of soundproofing measures to minimise noise pollution.
• Employment of security personnel during late hours to ensure public safety.
• Implementation of a dispersal policy to manage patrons leaving the premises.

Councillor Paul Convery noted, These conditions are essential to balance the needs of the business with the rights of local residents.

Decision

The committee unanimously approved the licensing application for Prahova, subject to the conditions mentioned above. The decision aims to support local business development while safeguarding community welfare.

For more details, you can refer to the Agenda frontsheet and the Public reports pack.