A WEST Cumbrian bar has had its licence removed by a committee of councillors over "significant concerns" about drug activity at the premises.
Cumberland Council's licensing committee revoked the premises licence for Twisted Tongue, on 28-29 New Street, Whitehaven, at a meeting on Tuesday June 23.
Although verdict took place behind closed doors, a spokesperson for Whitehaven Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) confirmed the licence had been revoked in a statement published yesterday.
Councillors were asked to review the premises licence by Cumbria Constabulary, due to the "significant concerns around drug activity at the premises."
Premises licences must be issued by councils before alcohol can be sold at a property, as well as hot food and drink between 11pm and 5am.
Certain types of entertainment such as theatre, film screenings, live music and combat sports also require a premises licence.
The premises licence holder, listed as Simon Ritson, has the right to appeal the decision, by writing to the Magistrates Court within 21 days.
Legislation states that the premises can remain open until the appeal period has concluded.
A public notice issued by Cumberland Council in advance of the meeting said that the licence review application had been made on the grounds of the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety and the protection of children from harm.
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"We take matters of public safety, crime and disorder very seriously and welcome the verdict of the sub-committee today," said Inspector Hird of Whitehaven NPT on Tuesday.
"The vast majority of licensed premises in Whitehaven are operated to a high and safe standard" he said, "but let this be a message to those who choose to run their businesses less desirably."
Inspector Hird said: "We will continue to work closely with the Licensing Authority and partner agencies, taking robust action where necessary to keep our community safe"
Members of the public were able to have their say on the proposed revocation of the Twisted Tongue's premises licence prior to the meeting.
Representations could be made to Cumberland Council between May 20 and June 16.
Twisted Tongue is billed as "a vibrant, busy, loud live music venue with exciting and fun things happening all the time."
