3am licence bid ruled out

A CATALOGUE of complaints from neighbours about excessive noise, and allegations of underage drinking, jettisoned a March function room's bid for a 3am licence on Saturday for a 21st birthday party.

A special meeting of Fenland Licensing Committee was called on Wednesday after police lodged objections to the plans by the Windmill Rooms in Whitemoor Road for the late opening.

Lin Bagwell, the council's principal licensing officer, told councillors that since the beginning of summer late night opening for special events had resulted in complaints from neighbours.

She said the police had also recorded allegations of under age drinking and there had been a serious assault at the club and fights in the car park.

But Mahmod Ali, the club's licensee, said: "We feel the Windmill Rooms are being treated unjustly as we have not been informed of any outstanding issues from the police."

He claimed the venue's management had always acted upon the concerns raised by police and had co-operated fully with the licensing authority.

Ms Bagwell said under the terms of the new Temporary Event Notices, the applicants and police were encouraged to "negotiate away" objections, but she was unaware of any talks between the two parties.

The committee's decision means tomorrow's party must finish by 1am.

Councillor Michael Humphrey, who chaired the hearing, said: "Having carefully considered the evidence put towards us, and having due regard by the council's objectives, we have decided not to grant the notice.

"We are aware this will not withhold the event taking place."

Rashid Khan, owner of the Windmill Rooms, said of previous events: "A lot of the trouble stemmed from younger parties and we do not do them any more."

Mr Ali also said suggestions made by police about supplying accredited door staff, using sound proofing and obtaining legitimate proof of clients' booking, were being carried out.