A ST HELENS town centre nightclub has launched an appeal to the magistrates' court against the council's rejection of its bid to extend its alcohol licence hours.

Bar 44, in Westfield Street, had sought to extend the hours for sale of alcohol, currently from 10pm to 3am, every day, by two hours to 5am.

The venue also asked for an extension until 5am for live music, recorded music, performance of dance, entertainment of a similar description, indoor sporting events, exhibition of film and late night refreshment. 

Police said change would 'undermine licensing objectives'

The application attracted an objection from Merseyside Police who said the variation "will add to the cumulative impact in the area" in relation to crime and anti-social behaviour.

In a report, which went before the council's Sub-Licensing Committee in April this year, it was said: "Merseyside Police are submitting a representation against the application to vary the premises licence of Bar 44, 44-46 Westfield Street, St Helens, WA10 1QF, to extend the sale of alcohol hours and other licensable activities until 0500 hours daily.

"We believe that by granting this application it will undermine the Licensing Objectives, specifically the Prevention of Crime and Disorder."

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Inspector Jon Smith said in a report to the committee that Westfield Street had "the highest levels of violence recorded for all the town centre ward".

In the report, dated April 6, it was stated Westfield Street saw 113 violent crimes recorded in the previous 12 months, compared with Duke Street which was second with 61 and Ormskirk Street 58.

The Licensing Authority also recommended to the committee that the amendments "would likely undermine the licensing objectives of the prevention of crime and disorder".

The application was rejected by St Helens Council's Sub Licensing Committee following a hearing on April 21.

Barr 44 claims 'decision was wrong'

However, Barr 44 has subsequently launched an appeal against the decision to refuse the variation to the license.

The matter was due to be heard by Liverpool, Knowsley and St Helens Magistrates' Court in June but was adjourned to a date later this year.

A court sheet said that Bar 44 owners MJT Group Ltd are appealing against the decision to reject an application to vary a premises licence under section 35 of the Licensing Act 2003 "on the ground that without prejudice to any arguments which may be made at a de novo hearing the complainant contends that the decision of the respondent was contrary to the weight of the evidence, disproportionate, unreasonable, and in all the circumstances the decision was wrong".

The matter was adjourned until September 15 when the next hearing id scheduled to be held at the magistrates' court.