Wolverhampton pub gets go-ahead to increase hours despite concerns
A well-known Wolverhampton pub’s plan to extend its hours has been given the go-ahead, despite concerns from neighbours and a local councillor that the move could lead to noise nuisance and a potential increase in crime.
Pub giant Marston’s had applied for the Hollybush in Penn to have a variation made to its current licensing allowances surrounding the playing of music and the sale of alcohol for consumption in its outdoor area.
The company’s initial request to the council was to extend hours for the supply of alcohol to 8.30am-12midnight (Sun-Thurs) and 8.30am-1am (Fri-Sat), opening hours from 8am-12.30am (Sun-Thurs) and 8am-1.30am (Fri-Sat), and also the provision of outdoor music from 9pm to 11pm.
Licensing bosses granted the application for the Penn Road establishment subject to amendments, despite an earlier plea from Councillor Celia Hibbert, who said she had received a number of objections from residents living nearby who had raised fears of unwanted disturbances.
She told members: “No matter what the day of the week is, I think it is rather too early to sell alcohol at 8.30am and I would not like to see this.
“We are already dealing with an increase in crime in Penn and this could potentially lead to further anti-social behaviour.
“My intelligence tells me that the Hollybush and many other pubs are under-staffed since the Covid-19 pandemic, so how can we be sure that events are properly policed?
“I have received several objections from residents in this area and I have been out to the streets around the Hollybush to listen to some of the complaints being raised."
She added: “This is a residential area and I agree with residents that this variation should not be granted.
“If this goes ahead I don’t think I would like to live in Penn anymore and I’m sure a lot of other people will feel the same. There are also children who need to get ready for school who will be affected.”
Concerns over possible noise disturbances were also earlier raised by environmental health officers.
Councillor Hibbert is standing for re-election to the Penn ward when the city goes to the polls next Thursday.
Also contesting the seat are Ranjit Dhillon (Con) and Michael Hopkins (Lib. Dem).
