Friday 14 November, 2008
A Guildford pub will be shut down for a month following the suspension of its licence by Guildford Borough Council.
Councillors reviewed the licence for Platform 9 in Park Street in June this year following the execution of a police warrant at the premises in March. The police search uncovered quantities of drugs and associated paraphernalia. Serious health and safety defects were also discovered, including dangerous electrical wiring.
Cllr Sheridan Westlake, Vice Chairman of the Licensing Committee, says: "The suspension of Platform 9's licence sends a clear message to every pub and club in Guildford - we will not tolerate venues which turn a blind eye to illegal drugs or that put public safety at risk. This shows that the Council will focus its enforcement powers on the most important issues such as tackling crime."
The Council's Licensing Sub-Committee found that the venue had been used to further crime, there had been a lack of co-operation by the management with public authorities and the pub was poorly managed. Following the decision to suspend the licence, the freehold owners, Punch Taverns, appealed to Guildford Magistrates Court.
A hearing was due to take place this week. However, following negotiations with lawyers and co-operation from the pub management, Punch Taverns accepted a one month suspension. The closure came into effect on 11 November and will end on 10 December.
Guildford Neighbourhood Inspector Julie Murray says: "We fully support Guildford Borough Council and the councillors on the licensing committee with the decision to suspend the licence for Platform 9. A suspension of a licence is a serious matter and I hope the conditions imposed will strengthen the management of the premises. Surrey Police is continuing to work with partner agencies to address anti-social behaviour and tackle crime and improve the quality of life for residents in the town centre."
A series of tough new conditions have been imposed, including a requirement for a formal drugs search policy, greater rights of entry for police and more door staff on duty. The venue has also fixed the health and safety defects highlighted by the Council.