Agenda item

The Head of Service for Public Protection and Regulatory Services provided the Committee with the report on relevant issues with regard to the Licensing Act 2003 and the Gambling Act 2005 for the 27^th November 2023 to 25^th February 2024, together with ancillary matters arising from the responsibilities charged to the Committee.

An analysis of the TEN's applications indicates, 44 for existing premises          licences, 42 for permitted community events and 18 from Private Members Clubs. Members were reminded that the Christmas period was a busy time as expected for the processing of TENs across licensed Clubs and Premises but also in the wider community. Furthermore, that the retail sector often applies for extended hours and to trade on Christmas Day, Christmas fayres and sporting activities are abundant in the community while licensed premises apply to extend their hours for alcohol sales or for entertainment.  Moreover, that more than one premises utilised the TENs process to hold licensable activities while they awaited their applications for Premises Licences, and this is mutually beneficial as it allows the applicants to trade whilst allowing the Police and Environmental Health Departments an insight into how these applicants would run their premises in the future.

The Head of Service for Public Protection and Regulatory Services reported that since the last Committee report, there had been no contested applications, no reviews and no Appeals that have been determined during this period.

Members were referred to section 4.3 of the report, where the premises inspections and infringements were outlined. It was reported that the current performance level for inspected premises which is at 89.25%.

It was reported that an unused building in Pontypridd potentially being utilised for a wine bar with some outdoor seating, and the applicant does not propose late hours and is planning some tapas style food.

Members were advised that the organisers of the Rhondda Arts Festival have been in contact for some advice prior to the festival taking place this summer.  Also, that this is a well-established event, and this year it is hoped that capacity will be increased to encourage more footfall through Treorchy.

Members learned that a licensed premises in the Hirwaun area has reopened under new ownership and they have enquired about an extension to the existing Premises Licence, although an application has not been submitted as yet.

The Head of Service for Public Protection and Regulatory Services advised that a late-night refreshment business in the Llanharan area came to the Responsible Authorities for advice in applying to add the sale of alcohol as an off sale to their existing Premises Licence. Furthermore, after discussions relating to conditions, this application was submitted and granted.

It was reported that a large, licensed premises in the Treforest area contacted licensing officers for advice in relation to a few events they have planned utilising outside areas. Also, that the premises is not currently trading as they have done historically and are thinking of new ways to utilise the space, they have to stay open.  In addition, from speaking to them it seems that a change in socialising trends has forced them to change their business format.

Members learned that a licensed premises in the Treorchy area is subject to ongoing complaints, primarily in relation to noise and anti-social behaviour and the relevant parties are aware of the allegations.

Members were advised that Terry Stephens from South Wales Police came to a number of our Pubwatch meetings across RCT in his position as Counter Terrorism Security Advisor, whereby Terry gave an informative talk about Martyn’s Law, a piece of legislation which will impact many of our spaces and premises and the way local authorities deal with events, planning security and running businesses.

It was reported that following a request from the police, Licensing Officers attended several premises in Pontypridd Town Centre to assist in relation to thefts from various off licensed premises. Also, that it was pleasing to note that all were happy to take advice and guidance from Officers. 

The Head of Service for Public Protection and Regulatory Services advised that a licensed premises in the Mountain Ash area, has submitted an application to change from a pub premises to a convenience store with off sales of alcohol. In addition, that the premises has not operated for a number of years, and it is positive that this building will be part of the community again.

Furthermore, that a complaint was received via Crimestoppers in relation to a number of offences including underage drinking at a pub in the Llanharan area, and a joint visit was conducted, and advice was given.  Also, it would appear that the complaint was as a result of a disgruntled customer and no further action was taken.

Members were advised that the usual Pubwatch meetings have taken place across the Rhondda, Cynon, and Taff areas, and are a positive space for information sharing, advice, and guidance from Officers.

Members were pleased to hear the news of the Eisteddfod coming to Pontypridd this year has resulted in many smaller groups making initial enquiries for advice to hold small scale local events over Rhondda Cynon Taff. Moreover, that queries are being logged and raised with the event Safety Advisory Group where necessary.

In terms of the recovery of annual fees, Members were advised that the payment of annual fees remains at an expected level for this time of the year, and that licence holders typically delay payment until after Christmas period, which several suspensions issued to premises for non-payment, resulted in the payments being made and the suspensions subsequently lifted.

The Head of Service for Public Protection and Regulatory Services referred Members to section 5.1 of the report and provided them with an update in terms of the Gambling Act 2005.

Furthermore, Members were provided a summary of existing permissions in relation to Trade profile Gambling.