Controversial ‘free bar’ Innsatiable granted premises licence

The venue, which has been renamed The Licensed Lounge, was issued a licence at a hearing this week, despite receiving an objection from a local resident. 

However, owner Simon Atkins said he is considering selling the site, in East Street, Farnham, so he can focus on expanding his unlicensed bar concept to London. He said he plans to have another venue open within the next two months.

“I’m seriously thinking about giving the Farnham bar away to somebody who can get inspired like I did and create something amazing,” he said.

“I have a couple of offers on the table. Or I might run a national competition to win the bar, change your life – who knows.”

He added that he has developed a range of branded lagers, speers and draft branded cocktails over the last two years, which are “ready to be launched in the capital”.

Atkins submitted a licence application for Innsatiable in June after magistrates issued a closure order for breaches of licensing laws.

He said the bar’s business plan, which involves selling beer mats and furniture in exchange for “free alcohol”, will remain but the licence will allow him to promote and enforce payment.