A hearing to decide whether a ‘high risk’ Sleaford pub could get a new manager has been postponed. The Grapes was stripped of its licence several months ago due to fights and anti-social behaviour linked to the Southgate pub.
The owners have applied for a new licence with a different day-to-day manager. Lincolnshire Police were set to object to the application, saying the proposed new manager had ‘little experience’.
In a previous hearing police said the Sleaford pub took up more of their time than any other in Lincolnshire, with fights and unregulated crowds spilling onto the road. The licensing hearing was due to take place on Monday (January 13) but was postponed as neither the police nor the pub’s owners could make it.
Licensing Officer Neil Chadwick told the meeting: “Neither parties are able to attend today. Both do wish to address the committee in person and have requested that you consider adjourning.
The Grapes pub on Southgate, Sleaford, which remains open
(Image: Lincolnshire Live)
“I’ve liaised with both parties and they have agreed to January 28. I would support that in the public interest.”
Mr Paul Dickinson has been nominated as the new Designated Premises Supervisor by owners EDS Sleaford.
A report on North Kesteven District Council’s website states: “Lincolnshire Police’s objection is on the basis that Mr Dickinson has little experience in owning or managing any licensed premises.”
The force goes on to describe the venue as “high-risk premises with an extensive poor history”.
Paul Dickinson and former manager Lucy Damon said in November: “Whilst we are disappointed at the decision to review our licence, we are always open to improvements, and we are confident that the concerns raised by Lincolnshire Police have been fully addressed.
“We do not believe any licence conditions have been breached and have submitted a strong case demonstrating our areas of strength. The Grapes is an integral part of Sleaford’s nightlife and range of hospitality venues, and without this variety, people will likely travel to busier places such as Lincoln.”
The pub remains trading while the previous licensing decision is appealed.