Grace Kelly's Irish bar in Seaham has been refused permission to open and sell alcohol until 3am following an England World Cup fixture. The bar had submitted a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) to extend its trading hours after the group stage match against Panama on Saturday, June 27.
Licensing Committee Rejects Application
Durham County Council's licensing committee rejected the application after objections from police and environmental health officers. The North Terrace venue currently holds a licence to sell alcohol until midnight and remain open until 12:30am.
In a written objection, PC Gavin Rutter noted that England's clash against Panama is scheduled to kick off at 10pm and would conclude within the venue's existing licensed hours. He stated there is "no licensing need" for the requested extension.
Police Concerns Over Extended Hours
The objection further noted that while major sporting events could warrant limited extensions under certain circumstances, officers were troubled that the application sought alcohol sales and opening hours "significantly beyond those required for the viewing of the sporting event".
PC Rutter said: "The police have been unable to establish any clear justification for the hours sought or assess what measures are proposed to mitigate risks associated with patrons remaining at the premises into the early hours of the morning following the conclusion of the match."
The force additionally cautioned that the extension carried the potential to heighten the risk of alcohol-related crime, disorder and anti-social behaviour. No representatives from Grace Kelly's were present at Thursday's hearing, nor did they respond to requests for comment.
Counter Notice Issued
Members of the licensing committee voted to reject the application and issue a counter notice. Should England or Scotland progress beyond the group stage, pubs will be permitted to remain open until 2am during the knockout rounds of this year's tournament.
Venues will also have the option to apply for a temporary licence to cover any late kick-offs that could extend beyond 2am, owing to the time difference.
