Police support decision to block licence for nightspot

Middlesbrough Council's licensing committee refused permission for a public entertainment licence at premises to be called The Church, in Corporation Road.

Approval would have given the go-ahead for an overhaul of the Cleveland Scientific Institute building, creating a night-time venue for 850 revellers.

But he application was refused yesterday, on the grounds of protecting residents from late-night drinkers and potentially unruly behaviour.

Objections were raised by ward councillor John McPartland and Cleveland Police.

Inspector Gary Gamesby said: "This is a victory for local residents as they would have been disturbed by late- night noise and anti-social behaviour so we supported them in their bid to veto this public entertainment licence.

"We are glad their fight has been won."

Cleveland Police objected because it felt there was a saturation of licensed premises in the area.

Fifty of the 72 licensed premises in the town centre have a public entertainment licence, which means live music can be played.

Problems of fighting, drunken behaviour, and violence in the streets result in officers being deployed in the town centre, draining resources for other areas of the town.

Figures last year showed there had been a 46 per cent rise in crime associated with licensed premises and a 75 per cent rise in anti-social behaviour.

Applicant Barry Faulkner told the council he would work with the police to ensure there were no public order problems and that market forces would ensure that only the best pubs would survive.

In a report to the committee he said he felt the area was in need of rejuvenation and was prepared to invest money accordingly.

He was unavailable for comment yesterday.

Middlesbrough Mayor Ray Mallon has said in the past he hoped such applications would be considered with care because he wants to encourage an 18-hour economy in the town centre.

He wants to stimulate a cultural quarter within the town and a vibrant night life.