No to Saint extension

A Leamington nightclub’s application to remain open until 6am has been rejected by the council.

Saint Bar encountered strong opposition from Warwickshire Police.

Licensing officer Carline Simms stated that approving the new opening times would “increase crime and disorder in the vicinity”, adding that the area is already a “hotspot for crime and disorder.”

Between 1 September 2012 and 22 September 2013, there have been 41 recorded incidents, 30 of which can be directly linked to the bar.

In an interview with the Leamington Courier, the solicitor representing Saint, Ian Besant, claimed that “comprehensive” measures were in place to prevent crime and anti-social behaviour in the area.

Mr Besant also added that only two incidents in the last year listed in the police report involved violence.

In a letter sent to the council, environmental health officer Michael Jenkins, objected to the extension of the license.

He did this on the grounds that Warwick Street is “an area recognized to be at saturation point for licensed premises”.

He also expressed concern for local residents who, he claimed, would be impacted by the bar’s patrons leaving at more “unsociable” hours.

Noise pollution in nearby residential areas also remains an issue, despite Saint Bar installing noise limiting measures.

A number of residents wrote to the council in objection to the extension of the license.

At present, the bar’s license permits the playing of music and selling of alcohol until 1am from Monday to Wednesday, until 2am from Thursday to Saturday and until 12pm on Sundays.