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Time is called on pub

Emilene Coventry
2/ 1/2008

A TROUBLE-HIT drinking spot shut down over safety fears has lost its appeal against the order.

Ashton pub Molly Malones was shut down in October after Divisional Inspector Ian Hanson said he feared for his safety there.

After listening to his evidence and that of Greater Manchester Police’s tactical aid unit, as well as the bar’s owner Denis Waterhouse, Tameside Council’s licensing panel agreed to take away its licence.

Tameside magistrates turned down an appeal against the decision on 21 December after a two-day hearing, which included CCTV footage of violence and disorder outside the pub.

Mr Waterhouse has no further leave to appeal and the bar’s licence has been permanently revoked.

Insp Hanson said since the closure recorded crime and disorder had reduced dramatically and shopowners and people living in the area had told officers they felt safer.

He added: "We welcome the decision by the magistrates in endorsing the decision made by the local authority to close these premises.

"Greater Manchester Police and the Tameside division are committed to working with responsible bar owners and clubs in the area to promote a safe and enjoyable night time economy.

"However, where rogue premises cause problems it shows we will deal robustly with them and our principle concern will always be the safety of people using the town centre, including police officers."

He told the licencing panel at the original hearing that he had warned door staff about maintaining control, but they seemed to have no interest.

Under-age drinkers were being allowed in, there were no door staff inside the club and bar staff were continuing to serve drunk revellers, he added.

Martin Walsh, representing owner Denis Waterhouse, claimed police had used "draconian" powers to close the pub unnecessarily.

He said the pub’s management was committed to maintaining public safety.