Blackpool Council delays EMRO decision after meeting with publicans

The proposals for an early morning restriction order (EMRO) have caused outrage among licensees who claim that it will “devastate” the town’s night-time economy.

The council said it was looking to make the town more “family-friendly”, and that an increase in violent crime between 11pm and 8am had pub a drain on resources for emergency services.

Speaking after a meeting with licensees, Blackpool Council’s principal solicitor for licensing, Sharon Davies, said: “The Council has delayed making a decision on whether to go ahead with an EMRO or not.

“It’s so that the council can have more discussions with the trade and for the trade to come up with more proposals.”

Blackpool pubwatch chairman Craig Southall agreed that it is good news that councillors are listening to the other impacts of an EMRO.

Along with other trade members, Southall presented the Council with figures to show how an EMRO would impact on job losses and the economy with a lack of tourists.

The working group also put forward proposals to work closer with the police by enforcing more drink banning orders. There are also plans to introduce a triage system near the main circuit of bars in Blackpool to treat minor injuries, avoiding people calling an ambulance.

“At least we have them listening,” explained Southall. “We want to get moving on some of the suggestions, which should gain more time to show there’s no need for an EMRO.”

Yesterday, the Publican's Morning Advertiser reported that Hartlepool Council is set to be the first local authority to hold a hearing into plans to implement an EMRO.