A potential new micro-bar in Fulwood aiming to attract a ‘more refined clientele’ seeks approval for a premises licence, yet local residents are opposed to the idea.

Broadway News Limited registered an application to Preston City Council on Friday 15 July, to enable the retail sale of alcohol (on and off the premises), from 12pm to 10pm Sunday to Thursday, and between 12pm and 11pm Friday to Saturday.

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The application also seeks an additional hour on Christmas Eve; and Sundays immediately preceding a Bank Holiday Monday; and closing at 12.30am on the day following New Year’s Eve.

Dozens of nearby residents have since contacted the council stating their concerns and objections in relation to the site at 3 Broadway.

Some of the written representations include grounds that can’t be considered such as the number of alcohol outlets in the area or car parking issues.

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The topics most brought up were: nuisance to the elderly and children, litter, limited parking options, several bars already serve alcohol within walking distance of the site and fear of theft and damage in the residential area.

One person said: “Public nuisance and vandalism, especially at closing time. The patrons will have to cross through our quiet residential streets, which contain a high proportion of elderly people and retirees. They have earned the right to not have this on their doorstep.”

“I do not want my children exposed to drinkers and smokers in the vicinity of our house.”

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Another said: “This is a residential area and premises serving drinks on this road are inappropriate. There are already four other establishments serving alcohol on the main road just round the corner and within less than 200 metres.

“How many can this small area sustain, especially in the current economic climate?

“It will cause problems with parking in an already congested area especially if people leave cars overnight after drinking; increased noise and litter; general inconvenience.”

One person expressed the potential fear of harm: “The application is not appropriate as the premises in question is close to Residential Housing.

“Public Safety and Safeguarding of all members of a Community is important for a healthy, confident lifestyle.

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“Having a Micropub on the Door-step within this residential area could create fear and anxiety. Drunk and disorderly behaviour can be threatening and scary, especially if there is the possibility of personal injury or harm.”

In light of the potential issues, the applicant would carry out measures to promote the licensing objectives, if given the go ahead.

Some of these include; a documented Challenge 25 scheme; CCTV surveillance system; notices would be displayed at all public exits reminding customers to leave the premises and area quietly; external areas within and around the building to be kept free from litter unless kept in a waste receptacle to be regularly emptied; and only persons aged 18 years and over would be able to sell or supply alcohol.

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Alongside this children would only be permitted on the premises if accompanied by a responsible adult until 9pm except on the occasions of pre-booked private functions.

A part of the Council’s Statement of Licensing Policy which relates to this application states: “The Licensing Authority will encourage and influence a more diverse mix of venues, events and visitor attractions so that a wider group of people, such as families and older adults can also enjoy their time in Preston and this will be balanced against the potential for disturbance to local neighbourhoods.”

A meeting will be held before Preston City Council’s Licensing Sub-Committee, on Monday 31 October, to discuss the bid.

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