Residents oppose pub's bid to extend license

The Oxford Pub in Healey has applied to extend its license to 2.30am on weeknights.

Residents in Healey are battling to stop The Oxford pub on Whitworth Road from extending its license to 2.30am every night of the week.

The pub has applied to the Council to extend its live music and liquor license but a number of residents have rallied to oppose the application.

Now, Rochdale MP Paul Rowen and Council leader Alan Taylor have given their backing to the resident's campaign.

Mr Rowen said: “Having been contacted by local people, I have today formally objected to the pub’s proposals. For the life of me, I cannot see the need to dramatically increase this license. If successful, the pub will have a detrimental affect on the local community.

"I have been a great supporter of the role of pubs in the community, I draw the line though when the pub becomes part of the problem. This application is anti-social and has the potential to cause disruption, especially as it is virtually next door to local residents. A pub should compliment the area it serves and it is my view that this application does the opposite. The police have also raised objections to this application and I hope the applicants will take notice.

"Synthia Bellfield and the local residents have done an excellent job campaigning against this application and I am pleased to offer my support.”

Councillor Taylor said: “I know that the local community are up in arms at this application for substantially increased opening hours. The pub is very close to many residents who quite rightly fear disruption at unearthly hours. This is excessive and I cannot see the need to do this as there is simply not the market during the week. I am vehemently opposed to this intrusive application and I hope it is deservedly thrown out.”