A Bristol pub that police sought to shut down has been granted a week-long reprieve to address safety concerns. The Criterion in St Pauls faced a licensing review following a series of violent incidents, including a knife attack.
City councillors were set to decide on revoking the licence but adjourned the hearing after learning the owner had voluntarily closed the premises for two weeks to implement changes. The Licensing Sub-Committee heard that owner Anne White had received poor advice from a licensing consultant.
Solicitor Ewen Macgregor told the committee that the pub would reopen on 15 March with significant improvements. A new door security company would be hired, including a female member of staff, and the CCTV system upgraded. After 1am, the venue would operate an over-25s policy.
Additionally, The Criterion will join Bristol nightlife safety accreditation schemes. The licensing hearing has been adjourned for seven days to allow the committee to consider the proposed changes.
