Northampton Council rejects EMRO due to fear of job losses

The council had been consulting on plans to ban alcohol sales between 3am and 6am in the city’s “leisure zone” due to an increase in crime, and was looking to implement the restriction from 18 November 2013.
But the Licensing Committee voted against a curfew by a majority of 6 to 3 at a meeting yesterday after hearing evidence from various groups including Northamptonshire Police, local license holders and residents.
Key issues raised by those against the measures were concerns that drinkers would start drinking in other towns, the unfair burden on licensees who operate safe, secure and well managed premises, the financial impact on licensees and potential job losses.

The financial damage on the town more widely and the predicted difficulty in attracting new business tenants and students to Northampton University were also major factors in the decision.

Those supporting the proposal argued that the restriction would discourage pre-loading, create a level playing field for bars and clubs, reduce crime and disorder and ensure police resources could be targeted more effectively.

Councillor David Mackintosh, Leader of Northampton Borough Council, said: “For many people our town is an exciting place to visit for an enjoyable night out. So it is important we look at what steps we can take to ensure everyone is safe and has a good time.
“I am disappointed that the Licensing Committee will not pursue an EMRO. But I remain committed to working with the emergency services, licence holders and the community to make our town a safer place for everyone.”

Councillor Christopher Malpas, chair of Northampton Borough Council’s Licensing Committee, said despite the rejection of an EMRO the team will continue to monitor pubs and bars in the town.

“Using our existing powers we will continue to work with all parties to review the license of any premises that fail to meet the high standards we expect in Northampton,” he said.

Hartlepool Borough Council also rejected plans to introduce an EMRO last month.