Pub with 'serious level of violence' to lose licence

A bar causing police "the most problems" in Lincolnshire is to lose its licence.

The Grapes on Southgate in Sleaford often had large groups of customers spilling into the road with a "serious level of violence" breaking out, Lincolnshire Police said.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, North Kesteven District Council's licensing committee said they had "no confidence" the pub's management would operate within licensing rules.

Owners EDS Sleaford rejected claims their pub was associated with violence.

The force told the hearing on Tuesday the venue had little control over customers, was understaffed and rarely had security on the door.

Sgt Amy Adams said: “Demand on that premises is much higher than any other in Lincolnshire at the moment.

“We have shown a lengthy history of trying to resolve problems. The lack of engagement is extremely concerning.

"The venue is affecting the local community and businesses."

She said the promised improvements seemed "too little, too late. It’s not for us to keep chasing updates, we have over 4,000 licensed premises."

Officers had been called out to fights, underage drinking, drug use, anti-social behaviour and overcrowding in recent months, the force said.

The pub's management told the hearing that the evidence was "misleading" and a "character assassination".

Emma Drury, from EDS Sleaford, said: "Every single item police have suggested, we actively dealt with. We should have communicated that to police better."

She claimed there were now door staff working from 22:00 and people could only take plastic cups outside rather than glasses.

“We are trying to get better," she added.

"We want to build a successful pub that’s a good part of Sleaford."

The committee criticised the bar's management and said it believed they would continue to undermine licensing objectives.

They also condemned the venue's refusal to join a Pub Watch scheme, saying it was "very disappointing and appeared to be financially driven".

The Grapes can continue to operate until 7 December, unless an appeal is made.

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