Head of Trinity's Licensing team, barrister Charles Holland successfully represented the owner of Che Bar and Goldie’s bars in Stockton at a Licensing Committee Meeting held on Monday 8th June 2020.
The licensing review had been triggered as a result of concerns raised by Cleveland Police regarding the door staff and reports of disorder at the bars on Stockton's High Street.
Following negotiations, bar owner Mr Paul Raffiq, represented by Charles Holland, and Cleveland Police agreed that measures would be introduced to reduce disorder concerns, including increasing door staff numbers, contracting a new door management company, minimum unit pricing for beer and earlier closing times.
In presenting to the Committee, Charles Holland said of the proposals: “This is an organic process where Mr Raffiq must work with his new door team and his management to deliver a safe premises.” Charles also highlighted the anticipated long term impact of COVID-19 on the majority of licensed industries.
The Committee subsequently approved the new conditions for the two bars and they each retained their licences. Given Coronavirus restrictions, some of the participants attended the hybrid hearing remotely and some in person.
Full details of the meeting can be found here.
Charles is instructed in a wide range of complex licensing matters by clients from across the country and is regularly recognised by the leading industry directories:
"He always provides practical advice and has an ability to navigate problems. He is one of the top licensing barristers in the country." "He is an exceptional advocate with fantastic research skills. He gives 100% to every case to ensure the client has the absolute best chance of success." Licensing Band 1, Chambers & Partners 2020.
"He has an eye for detail, is not afraid of challenging situations and has a commercial approach to clients' needs." Licensing, Legal 500 2020.
Charles is a Consulting Editor of Paterson's Licensing Acts and an Assistant Editor of the Journal of Licensing. Charles also has a blogging website focused on Licensing and Commercial Litigation, www.cholland.com.
COVID-19
In response to the impact of the Coronavirus crisis, Chambers' Licensing barristers and staff are committed to providing as much assistance as possible, including urgent advice, resources and support in dealing with remote, in person and hybrid hearings. Members of the team can assist in all aspects of Licensing issues arising from the pandemic and its impact on Local Authorities, Police Authorities, Businesses and individuals. For further details, please contact the clerking team on 0191 232 1927 or by email civilclerks@trinitychambers.co.uk