Agenda and minutes

In accordance with the local Code of Conduct, a councillor is required to disclose at the meeting any disclosable pecuniary interest (DPI) that they may have in respect of any matter for consideration on this agenda. Any councillor with a DPI must not participate in any discussion or vote regarding that matter and that they must also withdraw from the meeting immediately before consideration of the matter.

If that DPI has not been registered, you must notify the Monitoring Officer of the details of the DPI within 28 days of the date of the meeting.

In arriving at its decision, the Sub-Committee took into account the relevant representations submitted in writing. The Sub-Committee was also made aware that the following were relevant:

Guildford Borough Council’s Statement of Licensing Policy

·         Section 4 – (Fundamental Principles)

·         Section 11 – 11.1 – 11.8 (Licensing Hours)

·         Section 12 – 12.2.1 – 12.2.14 (Crime and Disorder)

·         Section 12: 12.4.1 – 12.4.6  – (Public Nuisance)

·         Section 13 – (Licence Conditions)

National Guidance Issued on 6 April 2017 by the Secretary of State under Section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003:

·         Paragraphs 2.1 – 2.6 – Crime and Disorder

·         Paragraphs 2.15 – 2.21 – Public Nuisance

·         Paragraphs 9.31 - 9.41 – Hearings

·         Paragraphs 9.42 - 9.44 – Determining actions that are appropriate for the promotion of the licensing objectives

·         Paragraphs 10.1 - 10.66 – Conditions attached to premises licences

The Sub-Committee received a report from the Licensing Officer who stated that the application was for a new premises licence to permit the sale of alcohol for consumption off the premises.  The applicant would implement a number of steps to ensure the promotion of the four licensing objectives.  A public consultation had been held from 22 December 2017 – 18 January 2018 and advertised in accordance with regulations.  No objections had been received from any of the Responsible Authorities.  One letter of support had been submitted by a local resident and twenty-three letters of objections, primarily on the grounds of the prevention of crime and disorder and public nuisance.  The concerns were that the sale of alcohol would increase the likelihood of disorderly behaviour and cause drinkers to congregate on the green immediately outside the Post Office.  The Sub-Committee was reminded that they must consider the application for the grant of a premises licence on its merits.  Having regard to the relevant representations received, the Sub-Committee must take such steps (if any) as it considered appropriate for the promotion of the licensing objectives. 

The Chairman invited the applicant to address the Sub-Committee. The applicant made the following points:

·         There had been a grocer in the same parade of shops that previously sold alcohol.

·         A large number of Post-Offices were at risk of closing due to lack of business and they were therefore looking to diversify to ensure the long-term viability of their business.  Alcohol was part of the goods they would sell but it was not their intention to turn the business into a bargain booze shop.  The primary business was the Post Office. 

·         An alarm was already installed on the building but would be improved as part of the forthcoming refurbishments.  CCTV would also be installed and complied with RIPA Standards to ensure that it was not intrusive. 

·         Alcohol above a strength of 6.5% would not be sold at their shop.

·         Regular litter inspections would be conducted outside the store.

·         Only one delivery was anticipated per week from the Cash and Carry.

·         The Challenge 25 Scheme would be in operation and all staff trained to identify child exploitation.

·         Adults would not be  ...  view the full minutes text for item 2.