The vibrant nightlife of Burnley is facing a significant upheaval as the owners of Proj3kt nightclub, a popular venue located on Hammerton Street, prepare to fight the recent revocation of their license. The decision, made by Burnley Council’s Licensing Act 2003 Sub Committee, has cast a shadow over the future of the establishment and ignited a debate regarding the safety and regulation of Burnley’s nighttime economy. The owners, Jason and Rebecca McQuoid, representing Mode Property Ltd, have expressed their disappointment and vowed to challenge the decision in the magistrates court, setting the stage for a legal battle that could have implications for other licensed premises in the town.
The council’s decision to revoke the license was prompted by a request from Lancashire Police, who presented evidence that raised serious concerns about the operation of Proj3kt. Their submission was grounded in two key licensing objectives outlined in the Licensing Act 2003: the prevention of crime and disorder, and the protection of children from harm. These objectives form the cornerstone of the licensing framework, ensuring that venues operate in a manner that safeguards the public and adheres to legal standards.
The evidence presented to the committee painted a concerning picture of the activities occurring within and around the nightclub. This included allegations of drug dealing and use, incidents of violence, and the presence of underage individuals, some as young as 13, within the premises. The specifics of this evidence, which remain undisclosed due to legal proceedings, were evidently compelling enough to sway the committee, leading them to conclude that the current operation of Proj3kt posed a risk to public safety and the welfare of young people.
The potential closure of Proj3kt has sent ripples through the local business community. Nightclubs play a vital role in the social and economic life of a town, providing entertainment, employment, and contributing to the overall vibrancy of the area. The loss of such an establishment can have a negative impact on the town’s image and the opportunities available to residents. For the owners, the decision represents a significant financial blow, threatening their investment and the livelihood of their employees.
In response to the committee’s decision, Jason and Rebecca McQuoid issued a statement to the Lancashire Telegraph, expressing their profound disappointment and outlining their intention to appeal the revocation. Their statement revealed their perspective on the incidents that led to the license review, and highlighted their concerns about the broader challenges facing Burnley’s nighttime economy. They condemned the police, specifically citing a perceived lack of adequate officer presence in Burnley town centre during nighttime hours.
The McQuoids argued that the police’s presence in the town centre was insufficient to effectively address the incidents of disorder and other issues that had been attributed to the area. Their point was that the responsibility for these issues lies beyond the scope of the nightclub’s management. This perspective emphasizes the complex dynamics of policing in town centers, where licensed premises often bear the brunt of the consequences of broader social problems.
Furthermore, the McQuoids emphasized the limitations placed on door supervisors. Insurance restrictions, they said, prevent them from leaving the premises to deal with incidents occurring further up the street. This highlights the challenge faced by licensed premises in managing the safety of their customers and the public when dealing with issues that extend beyond the immediate confines of their venue.
The statement also provided some critical context to the incidents cited by the police. The McQuoids noted that only seven per cent of the documented incidents over a two-year period were related to violent disorder involving their customers. The vast majority of incidents, they claimed, originated from individuals or groups on the streets surrounding the nightclub. This paints a different picture of the situation, suggesting that the nightclub is unfairly bearing the brunt of problems emanating from the wider environment.
Their argument emphasizes the importance of comprehensive policing strategies that address issues throughout the town center, rather than focusing solely on individual venues. By drawing attention to these broader issues, the McQuoids sought to deflect the blame for incidents occurring outside of the nightclub, and to highlight the systemic problems that need addressing.
The McQuoids also voiced concerns about the overall regulation and policing of Burnley’s nighttime economy. They stated, “I speak for all the licensed premises in Burnley when I say that our nighttime economy needs better policing numbers and a schedule to fit how the town operates now.” This statement reflects a shared sentiment among local business owners who believe that the current level of police presence and operational schedule do not adequately address the needs of the town’s nighttime economy.
They called for a reassessment of the existing policing strategies and a deployment schedule that better aligns with the needs of the nighttime economy. This is significant, because the nighttime economy is a valuable source of employment and revenue in the local area. A robust, properly staffed, and responsive police presence is essential to keep patrons safe.
The appeal to the magistrates court will likely involve a detailed examination of the evidence presented by the police and the defense mounted by Mode Property Ltd. The magistrates will have to weigh the evidence and determine whether the licensing objectives were sufficiently compromised to justify the revocation of the license. Legal experts will examine the specifics, and there is certain to be a careful assessment of the validity of the evidence, the fairness of the procedures, and the potential impact of the decision on the nightclub’s operation and on the wider community.
The outcome of this appeal is uncertain, but its implications are far-reaching. If the magistrates uphold the revocation, Proj3kt will be forced to close, potentially leading to job losses and the loss of a valuable entertainment venue. Such a decision would likely serve as a cautionary tale for other licensed premises in Burnley, prompting them to review their operations and take additional measures to ensure compliance with the licensing objectives.
Conversely, if the magistrates overturn the revocation, it would represent a significant victory for the owners of Proj3kt, allowing them to resume their business operations. It would also signal to the police and the local council that the current level of evidence and scrutiny may not always be sufficient to justify the closure of a licensed venue. The outcome of the appeal will likely set a precedent for future licensing disputes in Burnley and other towns, influencing how local authorities balance the need to protect public safety with the economic interests of businesses and the enjoyment of the public.
The case highlights the challenges of regulating the nighttime economy, and the need for a collaborative approach involving the police, local authorities, licensed premises, and community stakeholders. Effective regulation requires a nuanced understanding of the issues, a balanced approach, and a commitment to addressing the root causes of crime and disorder, rather than simply focusing on the symptoms.
The future of Proj3kt nightclub, and potentially the shape of Burnley’s nightlife, hinges on the magistrates court decision. Regardless of the outcome, the case serves as a crucial reminder of the responsibilities of all stakeholders in maintaining a safe and vibrant nighttime environment, including the need for adequate policing, responsible business practices, and a willingness to address the complex social and economic factors that contribute to the challenges faced by towns like Burnley.