Coventry nightclub S7ven faces music licence threat

[dutchman]

A city centre nightclub's live and recorded music licence is under threat.



S7ven's premises licence was reviewed yesterday (Thursday) amid a catalogue of complaints about noise.

Bosses at the popular venue in Hales Street insist measures have been put in place to deal with the noise.

Councillors deferred the decision to a later date in a bid to find out more details.

Yesterday they read documents revealing a number of incidents dating back to August 2011.

They include complaints from people living nearby about loud music, including nine from residents in Chauntry Place. They have been investigated and described as "deeply intrusive" which "would very likely prevent sleep".

The council said it had CCTV footage showing promotional posters being scattered in the street while in another incident a megaphone was seen being used to persuade students into the club.

Officers from environmental protection teams sent a series of warnings to S7ven, which opened two years ago.

But in their report to councillors they conclude: "It is felt additional conditions on the licence will not be adhered to and indeed there are no additional conditions that could be placed on the premise licence in order to control noise."

Councillors have been advised they can revoke permission for live and recorded music as well as any facilities to make music.

Or they could instead alter licence conditions, including keeping doors shut at all times and removing a designated smoking area at the front of the venue.

Management told the Observer they believed the problems had been resolved.

Sam Proctor, the venue's designated premises supervisor, said: "We have worked closely with the council, all responsible authorities and residents, and have eradicated any problems. We consider the hearing a formality."

A council spokesperson added: "A review of the premises licence for the S7ven nightclub is being held because of a series of noise nuisance complaints and evidence of fly-tipping and littering.

"At the hearing interested parties including the club will be given the opportunity to make representations before a panel of committee members make a decision."

[dutchman]

S7ven nightclub court date over alleged fly-posting

BOSSES of a Coventry city centre nightspot are due to appear in court over noise and alleged illegal fly-posting of the club’s events.

Councillors yesterday reviewed S7ven’s premises licence after complaints about noise and fly-posting.

They met for a licensing review hearing following complaints about “unprecedented” levels of fly-posting and too much noise at the bar.

But the committee refused to impose punishment while legal proceedings were pending, except to impose certain conditions.

The club, at the old fire station, in Hales Street, will run as normal ahead of the court hearing at Coventry Magistrates Court on April 9.

Under the conditions set yesterday, the club must ensure all doors, with the exception of the main doors, are kept closed during regulated entertainment.

It must also ensure distribution of promotional materials for the club are approved by the licence holder or designated premises holder, who must obtain identification details of those distributing the material.

Managers had received six warning letters and two noise abatement notices after nearby residents contacted the council about their concerns.

Coun Gary Crookes, chairman of the licensing committee, said imposing the conditions was “necessary, proportionate and appropriate” because of the history of the S7ven nightclub.

“Having heard all the representations the sub committee are disappointed that it’s taken so long to remedy these issues.

“The committee were concerned about the noise affecting local residents and have fully considered all the options.

“It is not up to the sub-committee to provide punishment with legal proceedings against the venue.

“We will leave it up to the appropriate authorities. We have accepted the conditions and we believe it meets the four licensing objectives.

“However, should a transgression come up in the future you will be back for another hearing.

“We’ve been lenient but at a future hearing we may not be so lenient.”