‘Declining’ pub must install customer ID scanner to keep licence

Newham Council’s licensing committee decided the Queens Head, in Stratford, east London, can stay open but only if the pub accepted the proposed changes, as agreed with the police, designed to prevent crime and disorder. 

The pub, owned by Craft Union Pub Company, agreed to implement conditions, including an electronic ID scanner that will operate on Friday and Saturday evenings, to remove its pool table and to increase door staff supervision.

A spokesperson for Craft Union Pub Company said: “We are pleased the Queens Head will remain open following a licensing hearing.

“As a result of unfortunate incidents in November last year, we worked closely in partnership with the police and licensing authority to ensure the pub continues to be a safe and secure community hub for customers now and in the future.”

Alleged affray​

These changes are as a result of three violent incidents that took place during November 2019, which included assaults on staff.

According to a statement submitted to Newham Council by PC Gary Watson, a woman was thrown out of the pub after allegedly attacking another woman with a bottle.

Another incident involved police being called to an alleged affray at the premises the following night after a male customer allegedly broke a window and then assaulted an officer.

PC Watson said: “The past three months has seen pronounced decline in the ability of the management of the premises to get to grips with running the premises, as it appears that the patrons of the premises have effectively taken over the premises.”

A Newham Council spokeswoman said: “Should there be any breaches or further incidents, the licence can be called in for review.”