Restrictions on new city centre bars and clubs set to continue

But not everyone agrees. Phil Corrigan reports

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RESTRICTIONS on new clubs and bars opening in Hanley are set to continue - despite objections from the owners of a popular venue.

A so-called cumulative impact policy has been in place in the city centre since 2015, making it harder for new venues to secure a licence if it is believed they will worsen problems with crime or anti-social behaviour.

Stoke-on-Trent City Council is now looking to extend the policy for another three years, following a request from Staffordshire Police. But the move is being opposed by Carl and Dominic Gratty, the owners of Gossip nightclub in Hope Street, Hanley.

Meanwhile, a similar policy that has operated in Burslem is set to be dropped, as it is no longer considered necessary due to changes in socialising since the pandemic.

The cumulative impact assessment (CIA) is applied to both applications for new venues and bids to vary existing licences. There are currently 126 licensed premises in Hanley town centre, including bars, clubs, off-licences and late-night fast food outlets.