A Birmingham pub has been ordered to shut its doors for 28 days over the crucial Christmas trading period after a violent brawl broke out in the early hours, long after it should have stopped serving.
Violent Disorder After Hours
The incident occurred at The Number 1 Public House on College Road in Kingstanding in the early hours of Saturday, December 13. According to West Midlands Police, the venue's licence permitted the sale of alcohol for consumption on the premises only until 1am on Friday and Saturday nights.
However, at approximately 2.15am, a serious incident of violent disorder took place. Police Sergeant Karl Thomas reported that at least five individuals were involved, using items as weapons. He emphasised the severity of the offence, noting that violent disorder carries a potential prison sentence of up to five years.
Police Action and Licence Review
Authorities raised significant concerns about the pub's management of licensing objectives. Notably, no call was made to police or ambulance services at the time of the fight. The premises only contacted authorities an hour later, upon discovering a weapon.
Following the incident, West Midlands Police requested an urgent review of the premises licence, held by Rapid Dream Limited. They also applied for the removal of the designated premises supervisor, Marc Greene.
The case was heard by Birmingham City Council’s licensing sub-committee C on Friday, December 19. Chaired by Councillor Carmel Corrigan, the committee conducted much of the hearing in private due to an ongoing police investigation.
Suspension and Supervisor Removed
The committee's decision was decisive. It ruled to suspend the pub's premises licence for 28 days, pending a full review to be held within that period. Furthermore, the committee upheld the police request to remove Marc Greene as the designated premises supervisor with immediate effect.
Councillor Corrigan confirmed the decision, stating the suspension and removal were pending the full review of the licence.
A spokeswoman for West Midlands Police confirmed an investigation into the disorder is ongoing. They have appealed for information, asking anyone with details to contact them quoting crime reference number 20/474218/25.
