Councillors show opposition to '24 hour drinking law'
Local Conservative Councillors have illustrated their concerns regarding the proposed new licensing laws in Hammersmith & Fulham by boycotting the Council’s newly created Licensing Panel.
The Licensing Act 2003 brings the provision of licences for the sale and supply of alcohol under the responsibility of local authorities from 7th February 2005. The new legislation has angered many local residents who fear escalating antisocial behaviour in areas where there is a high concentration of pubs and clubs, such as Jerdan Place and Fulham Broadway. Despite the inevitable increase in drinkers spilling out onto the streets, the Police have been given no extra funding to deal with potential difficulties.
The Act also fails to support the wish of local venues’ to close at predetermined times, and Conservative Councillors feel that the bars would be unable to withstand pressure from suppliers to extend their hours of opening. The newly created Licensing Panel, dominated by Labour Councillors, is seen as being incapable of protecting and promoting the wishes of local residents against the commercial demands of large companies with key interests.
Conservative Group Deputy Leader Cllr. Nick Botterill said:
“Residents in areas where there are numerous bars and clubs are massively opposed to unlimited opening hours given the likely increased noise and disturbance after midnight. The Licensing Panel fails to represent their interests or concerns and is weighted in favour of the Labour Council, which is trying to defend the unpopular legislation that their Government passed.”
Conservative Regeneration & Planning Spokesman Cllr. Frances Stainton added:
“We feel the best way to represent our constituents is to give evidence at hearings when appropriate, rather than supporting a body which fails to represent people’s needs and wishes.”
January 30, 2005
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