SMACS and the new Licensing Act
We believe the objectives of this Licensing Act are sound. They are:- Prevention of crime and disorder
- Public safety
- Prevention of public nuisance
- Protection of children from harm
We believe that the detail of the act confines itself to the achievement of these objectives within licensed premises and ignores the greater problem of behaviour in the streets as a consequence of overindulgence in drink and/or drugs.
The SMACS commitee is therefore actively lobbying the council and the local police to address the monitoring and control of public areas within Canterbury within the existing laws and bylaws. We are also monitoring all applications for new licences and license extensions within our area.
Our view is that Canterbury city centre already has a viable and sustainable economy combining commerce, tourism and residential development. With the rapidly increasing residential development in our area it is vital that the council does not allow an expansion of establishments whose sole objective is the sale of alcohol.
We believe that the opportunity should be taken to improve the quality of life of our citizens and visitors. We have a city with a strong cultural and ecclesiastical heritage and we therefore believe that no new licence should be granted unless they can demonstrate a change from a drinking to a 'cafe' culture.
Licence applications
The SMACS committee is monitoring applications for new and modified licences. But you might wish to let the council have your own comments. If so, address your comments to:
Tony Parker, Canterbury City Council, Military Road, Canterbury, CT1 2RB
Current applications pending
-
Ha-Ha Bar and Canteen: extension of hours to 1 am. The committee view is that this will create an increase in the noise pollution in the area of St Margaret's Street and Hawkes Lane. A detailed submission opposing the extension has been submitted.