The Licensing Sub-Committee of Dorset Council convened to discuss a new premises licence application for Blue Welly Events at Sutton Poyntz, Weymouth. The application was approved with conditions, following extensive discussions on public safety, crime prevention, and community impact.

New Premises Licence Application for Blue Welly Events

The primary focus of the meeting was the new premises licence application for Blue Welly Events at the field adjoining the rear car park of the Spring Head Public House on Sutton Road, Sutton Poyntz. The application sought permission for live and recorded music, late-night refreshments, and the supply of alcohol from Monday to Sunday, 10:00 to 23:00 hours.

Licensing Objectives and Conditions

Catherine Miller, Senior Licensing Officer, outlined the four licensing objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, public nuisance, protection of children from harm, and public safety. Dorset Police requested 15 conditions to be added to the licence, which the applicant agreed to. These conditions can be found in Appendix 2.

Public Representations

Fifteen relevant representations were received from members of the public, primarily concerned with crime and disorder, public nuisance, and safety. Four of these representations were withdrawn following an explanatory email from the applicant, which is detailed in Appendix 3. The remaining objections were discussed during the meeting.

Applicant's Presentation

Steve Bowne, Director of Blue Welly Events, emphasized the importance of the licence for the survival of the business, particularly for hosting weddings and other events. He assured the committee that the events would not be continuous and that noise levels would be managed responsibly. Bowne also highlighted the economic benefits to the village and the pub's role as a community asset.

Concerns Raised by Residents

Residents expressed concerns about the potential increase in events, traffic congestion, and antisocial behaviour. Paul Cherry, a local resident, questioned the number of events held in the past year and the potential for increased disturbances. Other residents, including Vicki Fernihoe and Sue Ketter, voiced fears about public safety, particularly for children, and the impact on their mental health due to noise and disorder.

Police and Licensing Authority's Input

Kirsty Gatehouse, Licensing Officer for Dorset Police, clarified that the conditions proposed were based on similar premises in the county and aimed to mitigate risks. She also noted that any breaches of these conditions would be subject to review and potential action.

Decision

The committee approved the application with the conditions proposed by Dorset Police. The decision was made with a view to balancing the economic benefits to the community with the need to protect public safety and minimize public nuisance.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the printed minutes of the meeting.