Digbeth nightclub Luna Springs has had its licence suspended for 28 days after a double stabbing incident. West Midlands Police made an emergency application following the violent event at the club on Hack Street/Lower Trinity Street, which left two men stabbed last weekend. The venue is now prohibited from operating without a licence.
Licence Suspension Decision
On Wednesday, May 13, Birmingham City Council's licensing sub-committee agreed to suspend the venue's licence for 28 days pending a full review. This decision puts imminent events in jeopardy, including a massive fan park planned for Aston Villa's Europa League Final next Wednesday.
Private Hearing Details
The application was heard in private after a request by the police. Pc Ben Reader, representing West Midlands Police, told the hearing that the violence at a day rave had 'attracted significant press interest' and 'involved the use of a weapon inside a licensed premises.' He confirmed that one person had been arrested and bailed, but there were 'outstanding offenders involved in this incident.' As a result, the hearing was held in private to 'preserve the integrity of the criminal investigation.'
Incident Details
The hastily-convened meeting, chaired by Coun Diane Donaldson, followed the events of Saturday, May 9. Two men were rushed to hospital with serious injuries, which were not considered life-threatening. A man in his 40s was arrested on suspicion of wounding and later bailed with strict conditions. The application was made under Section 53A of the Licensing Act 2003.
Committee Ruling
Announcing the committee's judgment, Coun Donaldson stated that the licence should be suspended for 28 days pending a full review. She added that the suspension would be lifted only once additional conditions agreed with the club owners had been introduced and police were satisfied with them. A written decision would follow, and there was no right to appeal the findings.
Police Concerns
In their application, police noted that the premises had a large outdoor space with a stage, where the disorder took place on Saturday. The force stated: 'This matter has resulted in two Section 18 Woundings being recorded. West Midlands Police has serious concerns for the promotion of the licensing objectives at this premises during this event. This is such a serious incident that West Midlands Police would like to request the licence is suspended.'
Additional comment from the club's owners regarding the decision and plans for imminent events, including a celebration of Villa's Europa League Final, is being sought.
