A south Liverpool venue could face restrictions on its ability to serve alcohol less than 12 months after controversial changes to its licence.
In June last year, plans to amend terms at Loft Bar Elif Bistro in Woolton were described as a “nightmare” by opponents. Despite concerns, Liverpool Council waved through plans to extend the serving of alcohol at the Allerton Road location until 1am.
Now, the local authority’s licensing department is to conduct a review of the premises licence in relation to prevention of crime and disorder. This is one of four licensing objectives any premises must adhere to if it wishes to trade alcohol across the city.
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The bar’s original licence allowed the Woolton bistro to open until 12.30am and serve alcohol until the same time on Fridays and Saturdays. It has since extended its rear smoking area and renamed it to “Garden Lounge”.
According to Liverpool Council’s licensing portal, the business can now remain open until 1am and serve alcohol for two further days, from Thursday to Sunday. The licence is held by UMUT 1 Co Ltd and its director Irina Isaeva who also also the designated premises supervisor.
Last year, a representation had been received by the council opposing the plans by a resident who said the previous closing time was “more than adequate” and should not be allowed to extend further. No objections were raised by Merseyside Police or the licensing authority in relation to the plans.
According to the notification issued online by the city council, it is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application. Such an offence carries a hefty fine if found guilty.
A person is liable to an unlimited fine on conviction should such a false statement be made. Under the terms of its current licence, the venue must ensure a designated premises supervisor is present for the sale of alcohol.
In order to consider the case, the Liverpool licensing authority will call a premises licence review meeting to which all the complainants will be invited. At those meetings, at a date to be confirmed, the case will be discussed and the committee can decide to revoke part or all of the licence based on the evidence put forward.
All decisions can be appealed in the Magistrates’ Court. Those wishing to make a representation regarding the venue can do so until June 19.
The ECHO attempted to contact Loft Bar Elif Bistro for comment.
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