LIB DEMS WELCOME NEW DRINKS LICENCE POWERS

LIBERAL Democrat councillors in north Bristol have welcomed a new check on the spread of pubs, clubs and drinks outlets along Gloucester Road.
It was agreed at Bristol City Council’s full council meeting last night (Tuesday 29th) to give the go-ahead to greater licensing powers in an area extending from the Arches and Zetland Road to the top of Ashley Down Road.
So-called Cumulative Impact Areas (CIAs) don’t stop new licences or existing licences being varied. But they do allow the council to take account of the cumulative impact of pubs and drinks premises in an area before deciding on individual applications.
Two CIAs, in the city centre and Whiteladies Road, have already helped control further expansion of licensed premises locally.
The police, supported by local residents, backed the idea of a CIA in and around Gloucester Road because of concerns about nuisance, crime and disorder if further licences are granted.
A report submitted to last night’s meeting said the area had a high number of late-night drinks venues and witnessed a large number of assaults and related crime.
David Willingham (Lib Dem, Bishopston) said: “The council’s decision will protect residents’ needs while still allowing a vibrant night life in the area.”
Fi Hance (Lib Dem, Redland) said: “This news will come as a relief to people living in the area who have seen alcohol use and anti-social behaviour rise over the past few years.
“The council will now have much greater powers to check the proliferation of licensed premises on the Gloucester Road.”
Guy Poultney, Lib Dem chair of licensing, said: “If we find that licensed premises are harmful, we will hold them to account.”