Ashton bar loses appeal against licence suspension

MAGISTRATES have rejected an appeal by the Top End Bar, Ashton, to remove licence conditions imposed by Tameside Council.

On April 3 last year, at the start of the first covid lockdown, licensing officers and police colleagues who were working as part of Operation Gritstone found the Stamford Street premises open for what was termed a business meeting. Alcohol was present.

Tameside Speakers Panel (liquor licensing) responded by suspending the licence for three months and adding conditions which took effect when it was reinstated.

On July 23, 12 months to the day since that decision was taken, Tameside magistrates dismissed an appeal to remove the licence restrictions and awarded the council full costs.

Cllr Allison Gwynne, Tameside Council’s executive member for neighbourhoods, said: “Tameside Council will always take action when it is needed. The covid regulations that were in place at the time of the offence were there to ensure the safety of staff and patrons and it was essential they were followed fully.

“On the whole, however, I’m proud of the excellent relationship that exists between the council and licensees. The vast majority of them have worked with us to keep people safe during the pandemic, as our many inspections have shown.”

Chief Inspector Lee Broadstock added: “Greater Manchester Police will continue to take proportionate action against businesses that breach regulations intended to keep the public of Tameside safe.

“In this case the business chose to open at a time when covid restrictions were clear that bars, pubs and clubs had to remain closed. The result should serve as a reminder to all Tameside licensed premises of the consequences of acting unlawfully.”