Plans for a new pub in the heart of Newcastle have sparked concerns over a possible spike in alcohol-related crime and disorder in the city centre.
Pub company Amber Taverns had applied for a license from Newcastle City Council to open a "modern community pub" at 36-40 Clayton Street, at the road's junction with Newgate Street.
However, Northumbria Police and the council's licensing and environmental health departments objected to the proposals on the basis it could exacerbate existing issues around crime and anti-social behaviour related to the night-time economy.
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The proposals came before Newcastle City Council's licensing sub-committee on Tuesday. The area is within Newcastle's cumulative impact special stress area as defined by council policy.
This means the pub, which would be known as the John Clayton if approved, would have to demonstrate "exceptional circumstances" before being granted a license. Representing Amber Taverns, solicitor Andy Grimsey explained that the proposals would bring new life to a long-abandoned building.
He said: "We accept that we are swimming against the tide here, we were aware we were going to face some stiff opposition. We are a pub, that is what we would like to run.
"There has been a premises license granted for this site in 2017. That was a license granted seven nights a week open until 2am, so for five days much later than we are applying for.
"The property has been empty for at least five years. There have been 47 enquiries about taking it on in that time, only eight in respect of retail. The others have been leisure, including amusement arcades and hot food takeaways.
"This premises has been empty for five years and there is a risk it will stay empty for another five years."
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Mr Grimsey also explained that the pub would be aimed at older customers already out in the city, and therefore would not attract more people into the area.
But Northumbria Police's representatives at the meeting remained convinced the opening of a new venue would increase crime and disorder.
Speaking at the hearing, Sergeant Rachael Cottiss of the force said: "In the police's eyes this application is not exceptional and will have a negative impact on the Licensing objectives to reduce crime and disorder. The previous license included a substantial food offering whereas this is for a wet-led offering.
"The location of the premises on Newgate Street is a very demanding area located on a main thoroughfare leading from the Gate to the Bigg Market. To introduce a further wet-led establishment will only lead to an increase in the availability of alcohol and revellers."
Following the submission of evidence from both sides, councillors retired to consider a verdict. A notice of the decision will be given within five days of Tuesday's meeting.
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