Nightclub loses licence as Police fear for public safety

Reporter: Jan Harwood
Date online: 04 February 2009

Councillors have ‘called time’ on Trax nightclub on Drake Street after persistent concerns over the running of the premises.

Police feared for the safety of customers following incidents of violence and anti-social behaviour, along with breaches of trading standards legislation and the failure to comply with licensing regulations.

The Licensing Sub-Committee have now decided that enough is enough.

Licence holder Kai Gwanzura was required to appear before a Licensing Sub-Committee last month. The panel considered submissions made by Greater Manchester Police, who called council staff as witnesses to give evidence. The Licensing Sub-Committee decided to revoke the licence to undertake licensable activities including the sale of alcohol on the premises.

The police presented a wealth of evidence in support of their allegations, including details of an arrest for an assault on the premises and other concerns over customer safety, fears over business associates with a criminal record, suggestions that cheaper drinks were being substituted for leading brand names and a reluctance to engage with council staff over licensing matters.

Carl O’Brien, Rochdale North Neighbourhood Policing Team Town Sergeant, said: “The issues of violence and anti-social behaviour surrounding the establishment were causing problems for businesses in the neighbouring perimeter while it was in operation and we are happy to see that the licence to this premise has now been revoked.

“Problems of violence and disorder were particularly prevalent on Friday and Saturday nights and also caused concern for taxi drivers on call over night.”

Andy Glover, Public Protection Manager for Rochdale Council said: “It is important that all businesses with an alcohol licence meet their obligations under licensing legislation. If they do not, there is a real risk that their licence will be taken away."

Ted Flynn, Cabinet Member for Community Safety added: “This is a really good example of all the partners in the borough working together to remove an establishment that was a persistent nuisance and the cause of much hassle for local authorities. We want to provide Rochdale’s night clubbers with a safe and secure environment in which to socialise and by taking action on irresponsible licensees we are succeeding in protecting our customers.”