First pub in Oldham blanket review cleared

The first Oldham pub to have a full hearing as part of a controversial blanket review of 22 town centre venues has won its case.

Earlier this year Oldham Council unveiled a series of draconian measures to tackle alcohol related disorder including introducing Post Office-style queuing systems at bars.

As part of the process it also issued a blanket review of the town centre's pubs, bars and clubs.

While some pubs have already agreed to impose conditions after meetings with the council, this week the Old Mess House pub was the first to have a full hearing with the licensing committee.

And the committee ruled there was insufficient evidence of disorder resulting from drinks promotions at the venue to warrant conditions on the licence.

The British Beer & Pub Association's regional secretary for the North Lee Le Clercq welcomed the decision.

He said: "We are pleased that a traditional community local has won its case against this draconian action by Trading Standards in Oldham. The sage licensing committee at Oldham has rightly concluded that taking 22 premises to a blanket review, contrary to the spirit of the Licensing Act, will inevitably lead to unfair and disproportionate action.

"This venue operates in a wholly responsible and consistent manner and did not deserve to face this unwarranted litigation."

He added: "This puts down an important marker for the government which is currently seeking powers for local authorities to impose Discretionary Conditions on multiple premises through the Police and Crime Bill.

"It is now clear that this proposed legislation would serve only to further enrich the legal profession and should be withdrawn immediately."