The licence for the Leather Bottle in Shrub End Road has been suspended today (Thursday, 9 December) by Colchester Borough Council, following an emergency meeting of its licencing sub-committee.
The decision follows police action relating to the premises as part of an investigation into drug-driven violence in the town.
It means that the pub can remain open but not serve alcoholic drinks. A full hearing before the licensing sub-committee will take place in early in January to consider next steps.
Councillor Darius Laws, Portfolio Holder for Economy, Business & Heritage, said: “The evidence shown to us today by the police regarding the alleged illegal activity that had been potentially going on at the Leather Bottle meant we had to take swift and decisive action.
“As soon as we were made aware today, we convened a meeting of the licensing sub-committee to look at what steps we could take. We cannot condone the kind of activities that appear to have taken place and have taken strong but appropriate steps while we look fully at all the information and make a decision on the long-term licence.”
Councillor Beverley Oxford, Portfolio Holder for Communities, added: “We have a duty to ensure people visiting licensed premises feel safe. This is a key driver behind our new #SeeYouSafer campaign.
“The action taken by the police and our licencing sub-committee today shows the commitment we have to protecting those looking for an enjoyable time out and taking action against those who potentially seek to undermine it.”
A date for the licencing review hearing at the licencing committee will be set shortly.
Page last reviewed: 9 December 2021