Time is called on law-breaking off-licence

Greater Manchester Police is warning off-licences to abide by their conditions or they will be closed.

It comes after Booze Zone, at Edenfield Road, Rochdale has had its licence temporarily suspended in April for three months for failing to comply with the conditions of its licence despite warnings for the lack of management and control of the premises. This means the off-licence is no longer permitted to sell alcohol.

Daisy Edwards, licensing officer for Rochdale Division said: “Once again we are demonstrating that if licensed premises fail to act upon our warnings, the authorities will come down hard.
“Pubs, clubs and off-licences play an important role in this town but we will not tolerate ones that are poorly managed. As part of our commitment to the Policing Pledge we will continue to work with the public to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour and will continue to target those that cause the greatest problems."

Management from Booze Zone were brought before the council’s licensing committee on 13 April following evidence from police and the council’s licensing team about the irresponsible trade of alcohol at the premises. A decision was then made to suspend their alcohol licence for three months and remove the designated premises supervisor.

Andy Glover Public Protection Manager for Rochdale Borough Council added: “The Licensing Committee was satisfied with the evidence received from Greater Manchester Police that the current occupiers have not been cooperating with the police and have been obstructive.

“The Committee also felt that the current designated premise’s supervisor has not been undertaking day to day responsibilities.

“The decision emphasises our commitment to making sure licensees respect the need to sell alcohol responsibly. This hearing was needed to reaffirm importance of upholding the conditions of their licence and we hope that Booze Zone’s management have now got the message. Our licensing team works closely with the police to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour by taking action against the irresponsible sale of alcohol to ultimately make our communities safer.”

To report a crime contact Greater Manchester Police on 0161 872 5050 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.