Update on plans for two new restaurants in Blackpool and Bispham after police licencing issues
This week, licensing documents for both applications were marked as withdrawn
Two proposed new restaurant projects in Blackpool and Bispham appear to have been shelved.
The two planned eateries, which were both linked, were earmarked for Devonshire Road in Blackpool and Red Bank Road in Bispham.
The applicants successfully obtained planning permission from Blackpool Council earlier this summer, but their applications for premise licences were not as straightforward.
In Blackpool, the planning application for a change of use of the ground floor from a florist to a restaurant and ancillary bar at 294 Devonshire Road - formerly Flower Scentsations - was approved by planners.
Papers made reference to a “Desi Kitchen”, suggesting that the eatery would offer South Asian cuisine.
Meanwhile, in Bispham, plans to convert the former Ex-Catalogue Discount store at 64-66 Red Bank Road in Bispham into a new restaurant and ancillary bar were also approved.
But matters were cast into doubt after police raised concerns that the original individual nominated as the prospective licence holder, for both restaurants, was not a suitable candidate to hold a licence.
Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest football stories and new puzzles every day
With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe
The planning agent David Snelson, acting for the applications, stressed that the original individual was no longer part of the operation, insisting that a Mr Steve Singh was now the new prospective license holder for both the Bispham and Blackpool premises.
However, the licence department at Blackpool stated that it was not possible to change the proposed licence holder at such late notice, and a new application would have to be submitted. The applications were duly withdrawn.
A premises licence is an official authorisation granted by a local council to use a specific venue for licensable activities including the selling or supplying alcohol; providing regulated entertainment such as live music, dance, or indoor sporting events; and the serving late-night hot food or hot drinks between 11pm and 5am.
This week, licensing documents for both applications were still marked as withdrawn and the applicants no longer appear to be involved in either of the two properties.