AN ALCOHOL licence has been granted for a city-centre nightspot, despite objections.
Stressed-out resident Stuart Grant from Albion Street has put his home up for sale because of concerns about the nightclub/live music venue at the disused St Andrew’s Church in Newgate Street.
For him it is the last straw after seeing the neighbourhood transformed since he bought his property three years ago, with the addition of Pitcher and Piano and Cruise nightclub.
Stuart, 44, a graphic designer at the University of Chester, said: “Up to 3,000 people spill out on the streets in the early hours at weekends. Even if 99% are well behaved you will always get 30 or 40 people who will cause problems.”
He welcomes the concept of a music venue featuring up-and-coming bands but worries it will add to existing problems of arguments, fights, revving engines, bottle smashing, vomiting and urination.
And the resident is unhappy with Cheshire West and Chester Council for ‘rubber-stamping’ the application, despite 13 objections.
The 600-capacity premises was granted a licence for alcohol, music and dancing between noon and 3am every day.
Businessman backer Philip Archer Jones is also the owner of the award-winning music venue Sugarmill in Stoke and Chester’s Platinum Lounge lap dancing club.
Nigel Woodhouse, director of operations, said: “We are delighted that the council has approved the licence and given us the opportunity to fill the cultural gap in Chester’s music and entertainment. Our intentions are honourable and we do not set out with the intentions of upsetting or alienating anyone, especially our neighbours.”
Licensing manager Guy Morris said residents had the right of appeal.
