Agenda and minutes

To consider an application for the review of a premises licence in respect of The Angel Public House,45 Alexandra Road, Wisbech, PE13 1HQ.

Members considered an application for the review of a premises licence made under the provisions of the Licensing Act 2003 in respect of The Angel Public House, Wisbech.

The Chairman introduced the Panel and Officers. Others present were;

PC Paul Hawkins – Cambridgeshire Constabulary

PC Justin Bielawski – Cambridgeshire Constabulary

Val Thomas – Deputy Director of Public Health

Steve Fleming – Cambridgeshire Fire & Rescue

David Dadds – Legal Representative for the Premises Licence Holder (PLH) and Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS)

Brenda Barber – Interested Party and member of the public.

Councillor Humphrey asked for confirmation that those present had received the report and associated documentation. David Dadds stated that he had not received the body-cam footage from the Police. Councillor Humphrey asked the Police if this footage is included in the CCTV footage to be viewed by the Panel. Michelle Bishop confirmed that the body-cam footage is not included in the CCTV footage. David Dadds stated that he disagreed with this as the body-cam footage is referenced in the Police’s witness statement.

Councillor Humphrey asked if any parties wished to introduce any documents or other information not previously disclosed. Michelle Bishop confirmed she had information pertaining to the petition which she wished to disclose to the Panel. David Dadds stated that he did not support this additional information being shared.  

David Dadds explained that he had written to Fenland District Council last week to request an adjournment to today’s hearing. Councillor Humphrey confirmed that whilst he had not seen the letter, he was aware that an application had been made but felt there were no grounds for an adjournment as adequate time had been given to consider the evidence.

David Dadds stated that on the 5 March he was provided with ‘substantial’ CCTV evidence which he viewed with his client. Following the viewing of the CCTV footage, he wished to challenge a number of assumptions made and asked for additional time to consider this piece of extensive evidence. He added that he and his client had wished to contact witnesses seen in the CCTV footage however this had not been possible due to the current Covid-19 restrictions. On this basis, he and his client had been unable to reach out to witnesses that may be able to assist and support them against the accusations made. He reiterated to the Panel that the CCTV evidence had only been provided on the 5 March leaving inadequate time to consider this.

David Dadds stated that his client is entitled to a fair hearing and should be allowed further time to consider the evidence disclosed. He confirmed that he and his client had attempted to prepare for today’s hearing however this was not possible due to the reasons outlined. He requested that today’s hearing be adjourned for at least four weeks to allow witnesses to be contacted and their evidence considered. He confirmed that no parties would be prejudiced by the adjournment due to the premises currently being closed due to Covid-19 restrictions. He  ...  view the full minutes text for item LH2/20