CONFIDENTIAL

 
Licensing Acts Panel

*

 

Report of Head of Housing and Environment

Author: Charlie Fletcher, Licensing Officer

Telephone: 01235 422695

Textphone: 18001 01235 422695

E-mail: Charlie.fletcher@southandvale.gov.uk

To: Licensing Acts Panel

DATE: 12 January 2022

 

 

 

Application for a premises licence for Toast, Nicholls House, 4 Thame Road, Chinnor, OX39 4QS

Recommendation

That the panel consider the application for a premises licence and the relevant representations and decide whether to a) grant the licence as applied for, b) grant the licence after modifying any conditions to such extent as the authority considers appropriate for the promotion of the licensing objectives, c) exclude from the scope of the licence any of the licensable activities to which the application relates, d) refuse to specify a person in the licence as the premises supervisor or e) reject the application.

 


Purpose of Report

1          To present the facts and relevant representations received in respect of an application for a premises licence for Toast, Nicholls House, 4 Thame Road, Chinnor, OX39 4QS, to the Licensing Acts Panel in order that it can determine the application under Section 18 of the Licensing Act 2003.

 

Strategic Objectives

2          The relevant strategic objectives are ‘Openness and accountability’ and ‘Improved economic and community wellbeing’.

Background

3.1      The Licensing Act 2003 (‘the Act’) established a single integrated scheme for licensing premises which are used for the supply of alcohol, regulated entertainment, late night refreshment or permission to carry on some or all of these activities. In the Act these activities are referred to collectively as the ‘licensable activities’.

3.2      A Licensing Authority must carry out its functions under the Licensing Act with a view to promoting the four licensing objectives. The licensing objectives are:

·         prevention of crime and disorder

·         public safety

·         prevention of public nuisance

·         protection of children from harm.

In carrying out its functions, the Licensing Authority must also have regard to its statement of licensing policy and any guidance issued by the Secretary of State (section 182 guidance).

 

3.3      Licences will normally be granted by the licensing officer under delegated powers but in the event of relevant representations being received regarding the grant of a premises licence, and where these representations cannot be resolved through any mediation process, the application is referred to the Licensing Acts Panel to be determined.

3.4      On 15 October 2021 an application for the grant of a new premises licence was submitted by TOAST HQ Ltd for Toast, Nicholls House, 4 Thame Road, Chinnor, OX39 4QS. A copy of the form is attached at Appendix A. The application is for the provision of late night refreshment and the supply of alcohol, as follows:

Licensable Activity

Proposed Days and Times

Supply of alcohol (for consumption on and off the premises)

Monday to Thursday      10:00 - 23:00

Friday and Saturday       10:00 - 01:00

Sunday                             10:00 - 22:00

Late night refreshment

Friday and Saturday       23:00 - 01:00

Hours premises are open to the public

Monday to Thursday      08:00 - 23:30

Friday and Saturday       08:00 - 01:30

Sunday                             08:00 - 22:30

3.5      The application initially included live and recorded music amongst the proposed licensable activities, but the applicant has since confirmed that these sections of the application have been withdrawn.

3.6      No representations have been received from any of the responsible authorities in respect of this application.

3.7      A total of 32 representations have been received from other persons. These representations are attached at Appendix B to Appendix AG.

3.8      Common points of concern raised are:

·         Concerns over music and customer noise disturbing nearby residential properties

·         The location being unsuitable for the expected volume of people or intoxicated people

·         An inexperienced operator may not be able to manage the premises effectively

·         Customer noise will disturb neighbours when leaving the premises to head home or to stand outside whilst smoking, and such disturbance would be exacerbated by intoxication

·         Lack of soundproofing between the premises and adjacent residential properties will be a source of nuisance resulting from music and customer noise

·         The availability of alcohol late at night may encourage the proliferation of drugs in the village

3.9      It must be noted that some of the points raised in the representations cannot be considered as valid under the provisions of the Licensing Act 2003. The Licensing Act 2003 states that in order for a representation to be considered ‘relevant’ it must detail the likely effect of the grant of the premises licence on the promotion of the licensing objectives, as outlined at point 3.2. A concern that cannot be clearly linked to a licensable activity that has been applied for cannot be considered relevant.

 

3.10    Some commonly raised concerns that are unlikely to be considered relevant are listed below. In each case where these concerns are raised, no link is made to how the licensable activities that have been applied for would have a negative impact on the licensing objectives that would not be the same for an unlicensed premises, for example a restaurant that does not serve alcohol:

·         Insufficient parking for customers

·         Busy/fast road

·         Lack of provision for deliveries to the premises

·         Lack of room for bin stores

·         May encourage persons to breach road traffic law

 

3.11    Further to receiving details of the representations, the applicant has provided some additional information and volunteered some additional matters to be included as licence conditions. This information can be found at Appendix AH (applicant’s statement), Appendix AI (premises concept information) and Appendix AJ (additional conditions).

3.12    It should be noted that the applicant is able to make use of the Live Music Act 2012 and the Legislative Reform (Entertainment Licensing) Order 2014 exemptions. This means that no licence is required to play live and recorded music in a premises licensed for the sale of alcohol between the hours of 08:00-23:00 where attendance is limited to 500 persons. Any conditions which relate to live music and recorded music will also not have effect between these hours unless these are added by a panel as a result of a review of the premises licence at a later stage.

3.13    A map showing the location of the premises is attached at Appendix AK. This map indicates the approximate residential location of any other persons who have made representations as indicated in the above paragraph(s).

Policy and guidance

4.1      The relevant sections of the council’s statement of licensing policy are as follows:

3.8 The Licensing Authority deals with the issue of licensing hours on the individual merits of each application and will consider the measures proposed to deal with the potential for nuisance and/or public disorder. However, when issuing a licence with hours extending beyond 11pm, higher standards of control need to be included in operating schedules in order to promote the licensing objectives, especially for premises, which are situated in, or near, residential areas or in areas where crime and/or anti-social behaviour is an issue.

3.11 Conditions attached to various authorisations will be focused on matters which are within the control of licence holders, and will focus primarily on the direct impact of any activities taking place at those premises on those living, working, or otherwise engaged, in the area concerned.

3.13 Conditions shall be appropriate and proportionate to achieve the promotion of the licensing objectives, and shall be tailored to suit the circumstances and premises. Conditions will not be attached where adequate legislative control exists.

6.1 Public nuisance is a broad concept, which concerns how the activity of one person (or business) affects the amenity of other persons living and working in the area of the licensed premises, for example, how noise from playing music interferes with another person’s right to sleep, or adverse impacts from light or odour.

6.2 The Act requires, and the Licensing Authority expects, applicants to demonstrate within their operating schedule how they intend to prevent public nuisance arising. This will be of particular importance where there are residential properties in the vicinity of the licensed premises.

6.3 When appropriate on application or review the Licensing Authority will consider the adequacy of proposed measures to remove or effectively manage the potential for public nuisance, anti-social behaviour and other crime which may impact on the promotion of the licensing objectives.

6.4 When an operating schedule does not sufficiently address the prevention of public nuisance the Licensing Authority will consider all reasonable conditions suggested by responsible authorities in any relevant representation to prevent public nuisance. In some locations it may be appropriate and proportionate to limit opening hours, the times of licensable activities or the types of licensable activities taking place.

6.11 Noise can come either directly or indirectly from licensed premises. Direct noise, such as that from entertainment activity, will be under the premises’ direct control. Indirect noise, such as that from vehicles and customers coming to and from the premises may not be under direct control, but the premises can strongly influence it. Both types of noise will be of more significance in areas with residential accommodation and will usually, but not exclusively, be of greater importance between 11pm and 7am. However it must be noted that noise and disturbance can also cause public nuisance outside these times. The operating schedule should identify the control measures that will be taken to minimise the impact of both types of noise on neighbouring residents and businesses.

6.13 Noise and disturbance from people outside can cause public nuisance even when those people are not behaving badly. The operating schedule should identify the control measures that will be taken to minimise the impact of use of outside areas. This may include noise and disturbance from customers on the premises and customers in outdoor areas such as terraces, beer gardens and smoking areas. It will also include noise, disturbance and obstruction from customers in the vicinity of the premises including customers congregating outside premises to smoke or drink, customers arriving, leaving or queuing outside premises.

6.15 Amendments to the Licensing Act have removed the requirement for licensing of a wide range of entertainment between the hours of 8am and 11pm. This does not reduce the risk of noise nuisance occurring. The risk increases when the entertainment takes place in the open air or within a marquee. Steps should be taken to prevent noise and vibration from entertainment causing nuisance. This may include noise from music, human voices and other forms of entertainment whether amplified or not. Consideration should also be given to ensure noise is not audible at sensitive locations such as dwellings, hospitals, hotels and other business premises. Any noise should also not cause unreasonable disturbance to the wider public, such as passers-by and people using public facilities. The Environmental Protection team are responsible for dealing with noise complaints arising from unregulated entertainment

4.2      The relevant sections of the Secretary of State’s guidance issued under section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003 are as follows:

1.16 Licensing conditions must be tailored to the individual type, location and characteristics of the premises and events concerned; (and) … should be proportionate, justifiable and be capable of being met.

2.15 The 2003 Act enables licensing authorities and responsible authorities, through representations, to consider what constitutes public nuisance and what is appropriate to prevent it in terms of conditions attached to specific premises licences and club premises certificates. It is therefore important that in considering the promotion of this licensing objective, licensing authorities and responsible authorities focus on the effect of the licensable activities at the specific premises on persons living and working (including those carrying on business) in the area around the premises which may be disproportionate and unreasonable. The issues will mainly concern noise nuisance, light pollution, noxious smells and litter.

2.16 Public nuisance is given a statutory meaning in many pieces of legislation. It is however not narrowly defined in the 2003 Act and retains its broad common law meaning. It may include in appropriate circumstances the reduction of the living and working amenity and environment of other persons living and working in the area of the licensed premises. Public nuisance may also arise as a result of the adverse effects of artificial light, dust, odour and insects or where its effect is prejudicial to health.

2.18 As with all conditions, those relating to noise nuisance may not be appropriate in certain circumstances where provisions in other legislation adequately protect those living in the area of the premises. But as stated earlier in this Guidance, the approach of licensing authorities and responsible authorities should be one of prevention and when their powers are engaged, licensing authorities should be aware of the fact that other legislation may not adequately cover concerns raised in relevant representations and additional conditions may be appropriate.

2.19 Where applications have given rise to representations, any appropriate conditions should normally focus on the most sensitive periods. For example, the most sensitive period for people being disturbed by unreasonably loud music is at night and into the early morning when residents in adjacent properties may be attempting to go to sleep or are sleeping. This is why there is still a need for a licence for performances of live music between 11 pm and 8 am. In certain circumstances, conditions relating to noise emanating from the premises may also be appropriate to address any disturbance anticipated as customers enter and leave.

8.42 Applicants are, in particular, expected to obtain sufficient information to enable them to demonstrate, when setting out the steps they propose to take to promote the licensing objectives, that they understand the layout of the local area and physical environment including crime and disorder hotspots, proximity to residential premises…

8.46 While applicants are not required to seek the views of responsible authorities before formally submitting their application, they may find them to be a useful source of expert advice on local issues that should be taken into consideration when making an application. Licensing authorities may wish to encourage co-operation between applicants, responsible authorities and, where relevant, local residents and businesses before applications are submitted in order to minimise the scope for disputes to arise.

9.37 As a matter of practice, licensing authorities should seek to focus the hearing on the steps considered appropriate to promote the particular licensing objective or objectives that have given rise to the specific representation and avoid straying into undisputed areas.

10.8 The licensing authority may not impose any conditions unless its discretion has been exercised following receipt of relevant representations and it is satisfied as a result of a hearing (unless all parties agree a hearing is not necessary) that it is appropriate to impose conditions to promote one or more of the four licensing objectives.

4.3      Relevant case law is as follows:

East Lindsey District Council v Abu Hanif (t/a Zara’s Restaurant) 2016. The significance of the case is that it reaffirms the principle that Responsible Authorities need not wait for the licensing objectives to actually be undermined before objecting to a licence being granted. This case would be most relevant when opposing a grant application.

            R (on application of Hope and Glory Public House Ltd) v City of Westminster Magistrates’ Court and Others (2011) EWCA Civ 312 also states how licensing authorities should approach licensing decision making:

            “They involve an evaluation of what is to be regarded as reasonably acceptable in the particular location. In any case, deciding what (if any) conditions should be attached to a licence as necessary and proportionate to the promotion of the statutory licensing objectives is essentially a matter of judgment rather than a matter of pure fact.”

(sourced from https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/alcohol-licensing-using-case-law/alcohol-licensing-using-case-law)

Options

5.1      In determining the application the authority must give weight to:

·         representations received from responsible authorities

·         relevant representations received from other persons

·         the Secretary of State’s guidance issued under Section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003

·         the council’s statement of licensing policy and

·         the steps appropriate to promote the licensing objectives

 

5.2      In view of the above, the panel is requested to consider the application for a premises licence and decide whether to:

(a)     grant the licence as applied for

(b)     grant the licence after modifying any conditions to such extent as the authority considers appropriate for the promotion of the licensing objectives

(c)     exclude from the scope of the licence any of the licensable activities to which the application relates

(d)     refuse to specify a person in the licence as the premises supervisor, and/or

(e)     reject the application.

Financial Implications

6          Should the applicant or any other person wish to appeal against a decision of the council, they may do so to the magistrates’ court. The council would incur costs should this occur, although the court may decide to award costs if the council’s decision was upheld.

Legal Implications

7.1      The Human Rights Act 1998 requires public bodies to ensure everything they do is compatible with Convention Rights and makes it unlawful for a public authority to act incompatibly with those rights. When determining whether to grant the application the panel will be aware of human rights considerations, specifically Part 1, Article 6, the right to a fair trial, Part 2 and Article 8 the right to respect for private and family life for those making representations.

 

7.2      The hearing of all applications is subject to the principles of natural justice.

 

7.3      Section 17 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 states, ‘without prejudice to any other obligation imposed on it, it shall be the duty of each authority to exercise its various functions with due regard to the likely effect of those functions on, and the need to do all that it reasonably can to prevent crime and disorder in its area’.

 

7.4      Under Schedule 5, Part 1 of the Licensing Act 2003, any person aggrieved by the decision in respect of the application may appeal to a Magistrates’ Court within 21 days of the date of the decision.

 

Conclusion

8          This report provides information submitted by the applicant and the parties who have made representations. The panel should determine this application with a view to promoting the four licensing objectives. It must, having had regard to all the relevant representations and the evidence it hears, determine the application using the options outlined in section 5 of this report.

 

Background Papers

Appendix A                      Application form and plan of premises

Appendix B to AG           Representations

Appendix AH                   Statement of applicant

Appendix AI                     Premises concept

Appendix AJ                    Additional conditions

Appendix AK                   Map

 


Appendix A – Application form and plan of premises

 

 

 


Appendix B

 

 

From: REDACTED REDACTED

Sent: 25 October 2021 07:46 PM
To: Licensing South <
licensing@southoxon.gov.uk>
Subject: Re: TOAST HQ LTD Nichols house,Chinnor ,ox394qs

 


To Whom it may concern,

Iam writing to object strongly to the opening of a licensed bar with music and late night opening.
Iam opposing strongly for various reasons.
Chinnor does not need this facility.
The location of this place is totally unsuitable for people coming and going under the influence of alcohol.
This thame road is too fast despite having a zebra crossing outside Nichols house, cars do not always stop ,and it is poorly lit.
It is too near residential houses for late night music.
It will encourage more of a drug problem in Chinnor as there are drug deals done in the new car park opposite Nichols.
It is totally unacceptable to open this facility.
Many Thanks
REDACTED REDACTED



XX station road
Chinnor
Ox39 XXX
Opposite Nichols


Appendix C

 

 

Licensing Team                                                                                     REDACTED REDACTED

South Oxfordshire District Council                                            XX Mill Lane, Chinnor, OX39 XXX

135 Eastern Avenue

Milton Park

Abingdon

OX14 4SB                                                                                                                                    

02/11/2021                                                                         

 

Dear Sir/Madam                                                                                 Email; Licensing @southoxon.gov.uk

 

Licensing Act 2003

Notice of Application for a premises license

Applicant; Toast HQ Ltd

Address – Nicholls House, 4 Thame Road, Chinnor, OX39 4QS

 

I refer to the above-mentioned premises license request and wish to OBJECT to the application for the following reasons: -

 

·         The proposed operator (Toast HQ Ltd) was incorporated in March 2021 and whilst there is no apparent negative feedback surrounding this company, equally there is no track record that provides comfort that this company can be viewed as a competent and sympathetic operator. This is especially important given the premises that are the subject of this application (see later comments).

·         There is press commentary about a proposed similar application by this company relating to another property in High Wycombe High Street (Bucks Free Press 5/10/21). The press commentary refers to details being ‘vague’ but indicates it seems there will be some sort of bar, with mention of a food preparation area and bench seating - creating a "functional restaurant". The application for Nicholls House seems similarly vague, with the licensing application indicating that late night refreshments will be offered between 11pm and 1am on Fridays and Saturdays only, which seems to imply that this cannot be viewed as a traditional restaurant, the predominance of its activities being that of a drinking establishment and music venue / or nightclub.

·         The primary reasons for objection rest with the subject property itself; the property known as Nicholls House has only ever been a hardware store (for many years) and latterly a double glazing and ancillary showroom, vacated in 2019. The commercial property fronts onto Thame Road, Chinnor, with the only other commercial properties comprising an upholsterer, a hairdresser, and a small convenience store. Surrounding the commercial properties on each side are residential homes and flats. Consequently, there is a material difference between the proposed venue in High Wycombe High Street and that proposed in Chinnor, which is predominantly residential in nature. Consequently, I consider the proposed venue to be unfit for purpose given the intended nature of its activities, having regard to its location.

·         Additionally, and of key importance, the rest of the subject property, which extends backwards quite some way, has been converted into a total of 10 residential flats, some of whose owners are quite elderly. This approximates to 80% of the floorspace of Nicholls House, over two storeys. It is some time since the flats were converted and it is unlikely that modern day soundproofing techniques will have been used in their conversion. Indeed, it is known that the ground floor flat that adjoins the proposed venue is divided only by a simple internal wall, ie two sheets of plasterboard. It is most likely therefore that the other converted flats will be of similar construction and therefore wholly unsuitable for a business that seems to position itself as a music venue, of both recorded and live music. People who have lived in the flats, in some cases for some time, have a right to an undisturbed and peaceful existence that this type of business, if approved, will severely harm.

·         The roads adjoining Nicholls House are quite narrow and can be difficult to negotiate, particularly Lower Road. Nicholls House itself does not benefit from any material level of dedicated commercial parking, land at the rear being for the residential flats. There is a small car park opposite, on the Bloor development, built 2017-2019, which, as part of the planning conditions, was designed for use by the commercial shops, but this is normally full of local residents’ cars and sundry commercial vehicles from time to time. This therefore offers no level of beneficial parking that the proposed music venue could utilise. Consequently, the natural corollary is the vehicles used by the club’s patrons would spill over into the residential estate known as Windmill Chase, to the detriment of residents as there is, simply, nowhere else to go.

·         The licensing application requests that the venue stay open until 11.30 weekdays and until 1.30am Fridays and Saturdays. Live music is requested until 11pm during the week, until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and with recorded music until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays. Having regard to the indifferent level of soundproofing within the flats, I consider this to be wholly unacceptable to those residents.

·         On the expectation that patrons’ cars will be parked in the Bloor development directly opposite, the level of noise from customers leaving the venue, potentially up to at least 1.30am on Saturday and Sunday mornings, could be considerable, and could be further exacerbated by those patrons chatting to friends and colleagues before driving off. Consequently there is a high level of probability that those residents will be materially disadvantaged by the patrons of the music venue.

·         Deliveries of beer and alcohol could not be made to the proposed venue in a way that would be in accordance with the Highway Code. There is a bus stop, followed by a small space that is not the subject of parking restrictions (enough for one car only) then the hatched markings of a zebra crossing. Any delivery vehicle would have to park illegally curbside to unload and pick up empties and would provide a visual (and probable physical) obstruction to pedestrians wishing to use both the pavement and zebra crossing when on the side of the subject property.

 

For all the above reasons therefore, I consider that the request for these premises to be used as a music venue and / or night club is unreasonable, and materially out of keeping with the other commercial units in the direct locality. Additionally, no allowance is made for the material nuisance that will arise to residents, both in terms of any noise emanating from the premises itself and because of customers leaving the property at any time. As such I OBJECT to the application and ask that it is refused.

 

Yours faithfully

 

 

REDACTED REDACTED


Appendix D

 

From: REDACTED REDACTED>
Sent: 04 November 2021 11:00
To: Licensing South <
licensing@southoxon.gov.uk>
Subject: Licensing Act 2003 Reference LAPREM/15431/21 Notice of Application for a premises licence

 

 

Message from REDACTED REDACTED

Address: XX Mill Lane, Chinnor, OX39 XXX

 

Dear Sirs

 

Licensing Act 2003 

Reference LAPREM/15431/21 

Notice of Application for a premises licence 

Applicant; Toast HQ Ltd 

Address – Nicholls House, 4 Thame Road, Chinnor, OX39 4QS 

 

 

I refer to the above-mentioned premises licence request and wish to OBJECT to the application for the following reasons:

 

·         The proposed operator (Toast HQ Ltd) was incorporated in March 2021 and whilst there is no apparent negative feedback surrounding this company, equally there is no track record that provides comfort that this company can be viewed as a competent and sympathetic operator. This is especially important given the premises that are the subject of this application (see later comments). 

·         There is press commentary about a proposed similar application by this company relating to another property in High Wycombe High Street (Bucks Free Press 5/10/21). The press commentary refers to details being ‘vague’, but indicates ‘it seems there will be some sort of bar, with mention of a food preparation area and bench seating - creating a "functional restaurant". The application for Nicholls House seems similarly vague, with the licensing application indicating that late night refreshments will be offered between 11pm and 1am on Fridays and Saturdays only, which seems to imply that this cannot be viewed as a traditional restaurant, the predominance of its activities being that of a drinking establishment and music venue / or nightclub. 

·         The primary reasons for objection rest with the subject property itself; the property known as Nicholls House has only ever been a hardware store (for many years) and latterly a double glazing and ancillary showroom, vacated in 2019. The commercial property fronts onto Thame Road, Chinnor, with the only other commercial properties comprising an upholsterer, a hairdressers and a small convenience store. Surrounding the commercial properties on each side are residential homes and flats. Consequently there is a material difference between the proposed venue in High Wycombe High Street and that proposed in Chinnor, which is predominantly residential in nature. As a result, I consider the proposed venue to be unfit for purpose given the intended nature of its activities, having regard to its location. 

·         Additionally, and of key importance, the rest of the subject property, which extends backwards quite some way, has been converted into a total of 10 residential flats, some of whose owners are quite elderly. This approximates to 80% of the floorspace of Nicholls House, over two storeys. It is some time since the flats were converted and it is unlikely that modern day soundproofing techniques will have been used in their conversion. Indeed, it is known that the ground floor flat that adjoins the proposed venue is divided only by a simple internal wall, ie two sheets of plasterboard. It is most likely therefore that the other converted flats will be of similar construction and therefore wholly unsuitable for a business that seems to position itself as a music venue, of both recorded and live music. People who have lived in the flats, in some cases for some time, have a right to an undisturbed and peaceful existence that this type of business, if approved, will severely harm. 

·         The roads adjoining Nicholls House are quite narrow and can be difficult to negotiate, particularly Lower Road. Nicholls House itself does not benefit from any material level of dedicated commercial parking, land at the rear being for the residential flats. There is a small car park opposite, on the Bloor development, built 2017-2019, which, as part of the planning conditions, was designed for use by the commercial shops, but this is normally full with local residents’ cars and sundry commercial vehicles from time to time. This therefore offers no level of beneficial parking that the proposed music venue could utilise. As a result, the vehicles used by the club’s patrons would spill over into the residential estate known as Windmill Chase, to the detriment of local residents as there is, simply, nowhere else to go. 

·         The licensing application requests that the venue stay open until 11.30 weekdays and until 1.30am Fridays and Saturdays. Live music is requested until 11pm during the week, until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and with recorded music until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays. Having regard to the indifferent level of soundproofing within the flats, I consider this to be wholly unacceptable to those residents. 

·         On the expectation that patrons’ cars will be parked in the Bloor development directly opposite, the level of noise from customers leaving the venue, potentially up to at least 1.30am on Saturday and Sunday mornings, could be considerable, and could be further exacerbated by those patrons chatting to friends and colleagues before actually driving off. Consequently there is a high level of probability that those residents will be materially disadvantaged by the patrons of the music venue. 

·         Deliveries of beer and alcohol could not be made to the proposed venue in a way that would be in accordance with the Highway Code. There is a bus stop, followed by a small space that is not the subject of parking restrictions (enough for one car only) then the hatched markings of a zebra crossing. Any delivery vehicle would have to park illegally kerbside to unload and pick up empties, and would provide a visual (and probable physical) obstruction to pedestrians wishing to use both the pavement and zebra crossing when on the side of the subject property.  

 

For all of the above reasons therefore I consider that the request for these premises to be used as a music venue and / or night club is unreasonable, and materially out of keeping with the other commercial units in the direct locality. Additionally, no allowance is made for the material nuisance that will arise to local residents, both in terms of any noise emanating from the premises itself and as a consequence of customers leaving the property at any time. As such I OBJECT to the application and ask that it is refused.  

 

Regards 

 

REDACTED REDACTED


Appendix E

 

 

From: REDACTED REDACTED>
Sent: 26 October 2021 04:09 PM
To: Licensing South <
licensing@southoxon.gov.uk>
Subject: License application at Nicholls House Chinnor

 

 

Dear Sir, I wish to object to the issuing of a license to sell alcohol at Nicholls House 4 Thame Road Chinnor OX39 4QS which I understand to be currently under consideration. The reasons for my objection being as follows.

4         Access to and egress from the premises. The premises front onto the Thame Road  with a Pedestrian crossing and Bus stop immediately outside. This means that there are no stopping/parking zones which would/should prohibit attendees to the premises from being dropped off or picked up from outside the premise. However in all likelihood these restrictions would be ignored.

2       There is very limited off street parking available for the premises. The only public car park being on the new housing development in Mill Lane. This is of limited capacity and is currently mainly used by the residents of the development. This could well lead to conflict.

3       The proposed hours of opening especially on Friday and Saturday nights which appear to be until 01:30 am would I suggest be extremely antisocial. It should be born in mind that the location of the premises are bounded by residential dwellings and the noise or disturbance inevitably created particularly at these closing times would be unacceptable. Furthermore even at the earlier closing of 11:30 during the weekdays would seem to be questionable

4       With a premises such as this it is unfortunately inevitable that some serious disturbances may occur at closing time. Should this occur and a police presence be required then the time required for their attendance must be considered bearing in mind the distance they would have to travel.

 

Regards

REDACTED REDACTED

XX Mill Lane Chinnor

 


Appendix F

 

 

From: REDACTED REDACTED
Sent: 27 October 2021 04:38 PM
To: Licensing South <
licensing@southoxon.gov.uk>
Subject: Applicant - TOAST HQ Ltd LAPREM/15431/21

 


I refer to my objections in regard to the license application for Nicholls House, 4 Thame Road, Chinnor, Oxon OX39 4QS as follows:

1.  Assume there will be commercial waste bins located in the attached private dwellings car park, not sure that there is allocated space for these. The noise when emptying bottles etc. After closing will seriously disturb the residents

2.  General public nuisance - this is a village, the noise factor of both loud music and noise when leaving the premises will impact the surrounding area.

3. The music - this retail unit is attached to 10 flats and would have serious consequences to their quality of life/sleep. There is also a recently constructed development nearby which will be impacted

4. Lorry deliveries - the property is close to two junctions, has a bus stop behind and immediately opposite, a zebra crossing all of which will cause a danger when deliveries are made

5. Crime - concern that this will bring crime to the village from outside areas, including drug and knife crime

REDACTED REDACTED

XX Lower Icknield Way
Chinnor
OX39 XXX


Appendix G

 

 

From: REDACTED REDACTED

Sent: 28 October 2021 11:47 AM
To: Licensing South <
licensing@southoxon.gov.uk>
Subject: LAPREM/15431/21

 

To whom it may concern

 

I have been made aware of an application for licensing on a premises 4 Thame Road OX39 4QS and wish to lodge my objections as follows:

 

1 - There are residential properties over the top, to the side and directly behind these premises and all would be affected by the application to have live music and drinking until 1am

2 - There is no parking available directly with this unit and the only parking remotely available is opposite but this is intended for the Windmill Chase residents and for those users of the existing retail premises.

3 - The proposed opening hours in such a built-up residential area with the noise that entails such a proposal would be soci-ally unacceptable.

4 - Public safety is a concern, with a zebra crossing 10m away and a bus stop directly opposite and should anyone park inappropriately this would have an affect.

5 - Drug availability in such a residential area would be an extreme concern.

 

Kind Regards

 

REDACTED REDACTED

XX Thame Rd

Nicholls House

Chinnor

OX39 XXX 

 

 

 

Additional comments subsequently received:

 

From: REDACTED REDACTED
Sent: 04 November 2021 11:00
To: Licensing South <
licensing@southoxon.gov.uk>
Subject: LAPREM/15431/21

 

 

To whom it may concern

 

I have been made aware of an application for licensing on a premises 4 Thame Road OX39 4QS and wish to lodge my objections as follows

I refer to the above-mentioned premises licence request and wish to OBJECT to the application for the following reasons;-

The proposed operator (Toast HQ Ltd) was incorporated in March 2021 and whilst there is no apparent negative feedback surrounding this company, equally there is no track record that provides comfort that this company can be viewed as a competent and sympathetic operator. This is especially important given the premises that are the subject of this application (see later comments).

There is press commentary about a proposed similar application by this company relating to another property in High Wycombe High Street (Bucks Free Press 5/10/21). The press commentary refers to details being ‘vague’, but indicates ‘it seems there will be some sort of bar, with mention of a food preparation area and bench seating - creating a "functional restaurant". The application for Nicholls House seems similarly vague, with the licensing application indicating that late night refreshments will be offered between 11pm and 1am on Fridays and Saturdays only, which seems to imply that this cannot be viewed as a traditional restaurant, the predominance of its activities being that of a drinking establishment and music venue / or nightclub.

The primary reasons for objection rest with the subject property itself; the property known as Nicholls House has only ever been a hardware store (for many years) and latterly a double glazing and ancillary showroom, vacated in 2019. The commercial property fronts onto Thame Road, Chinnor, with the only other commercial properties comprising an upholsterer, a hairdressers and a small convenience store. Surrounding the commercial properties on each side are residential homes and flats. Consequently there is a material difference between the proposed venue in High Wycombe High Street and that proposed in Chinnor, which is predominantly residential in nature. Consequently I consider the proposed venue to be unfit for purpose given the intended nature of its activities, having regard to its location.

Additionally, and of key importance, the rest of the subject property, which extends backwards quite some way, has been converted into a total of 10 residential flats, some of whose owners are quite elderly. This approximates to 80% of the floorspace of Nicholls House, over two storeys. It is some time since the flats were converted and it is unlikely that modern day soundproofing techniques will have been used in their conversion. Indeed, it is known that the ground floor flat that adjoins the proposed venue is divided only by a simple internal wall, ie two sheets of plasterboard. It is most likely therefore that the other converted flats will be of similar construction and therefore wholly unsuitable for a business that seems to position itself as a music venue, of both recorded and live music. People who have lived in the flats, in some cases for some time, have a right to an undisturbed and peaceful existence that this type of business, if approved, will severely harm.

The roads adjoining Nicholls House are quite narrow and can be difficult to negotiate, particularly Lower Road. Nicholls House itself does not benefit from any material level of dedicated commercial parking, land at the rear being for the residential flats. There is a small car park opposite, on the Bloor development, built 2017-2019, which, as part of the planning conditions, was designed for use by the commercial shops, but this is normally full with local residents’ cars and sundry commercial vehicles from time to time. This therefore offers no level of beneficial parking that the proposed music venue could utilise. Consequently the natural corollary is the vehicles used by the club’s patrons would spill over into the residential estate known as Windmill Chase, to the detriment of local residents as there is, simply, nowhere else to go.

The licensing application requests that the venue stay open until 11.30 weekdays and until 1.30am Fridays and Saturdays. Live music is requested until 11pm during the week, until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and with recorded music until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays. Having regard to the indifferent level of soundproofing within the flats, I consider this to be wholly unacceptable to those residents.

On the expectation that patrons’ cars will be parked in the Bloor development directly opposite, the level of noise from customers leaving the venue, potentially up to at least 1.30am on Saturday and Sunday mornings, could be considerable, and could be further exacerbated by those patrons chatting to friends and colleagues before actually driving off. Consequently there is a high level of probability that those residents will be materially disadvantaged by the patrons of the music venue.

Deliveries of beer and alcohol could not be made to the proposed venue in a way that would be in accordance with the Highway Code. There is a bus stop, followed by a small space that is not the subject of parking restrictions (enough for one car only) then the hatched markings of a zebra crossing. Any delivery vehicle would have to park illegally kerbside to unload and pick up empties, and would provide a visual (and probable physical) obstruction to pedestrians wishing to use both the pavement and zebra crossing when on the side of the subject property.

For all of the above reasons therefore I consider that the request for these premises to be used as a music venue and / or night club is unreasonable, and materially out of keeping with the other commercial units in the direct locality. Additionally, no allowance is made for the material nuisance that will arise to local residents, both in terms of any noise emanating from the premises itself and as a consequence of customers leaving the property at any time. As such I OBJECT to the application and ask that it is refused.

Yours faithfully

REDACTED REDACTED


Appendix H

 

Licensing Team                                                                                     Name REDACTED REDACTED

South Oxfordshire District Council                                            Address – XX Oxford Down

135 Eastern Avenue                                                                                                                Chinnor

Milton Park                                                                                                                                 Oxon

Abingdon                                                                                                                                    OX39 XXX                 

OX14 4SB                                                                                                                                    

02/11/2021                                                                         

 

Dear Sirs                                                                                                Email; Licensing @southoxon.gov.uk

 

Licensing Act 2003

Notice of Application for a premises licence

Applicant; Toast HQ Ltd

Address – Nicholls House, 4 Thame Road, Chinnor, OX39 4QS

 

I refer to the above-mentioned premises licence request and wish to OBJECT to the application for the following reasons;-

 

·         The proposed operator (Toast HQ Ltd) was incorporated in March 2021 and whilst there is no apparent negative feedback surrounding this company, equally there is no track record that provides comfort that this company can be viewed as a competent and sympathetic operator. This is especially important given the premises that are the subject of this application (see later comments).

·         There is press commentary about a proposed similar application by this company relating to another property in High Wycombe High Street (Bucks Free Press 5/10/21). The press commentary refers to details being ‘vague’, but indicates it seems there will be some sort of bar, with mention of a food preparation area and bench seating - creating a "functional restaurant". The application for Nicholls House seems similarly vague, with the licensing application indicating that late night refreshments will be offered between 11pm and 1am on Fridays and Saturdays only, which seems to imply that this cannot be viewed as a traditional restaurant, the predominance of its activities being that of a drinking establishment and music venue / or nightclub.

·         The primary reasons for objection rest with the subject property itself; the property known as Nicholls House has only ever been a hardware store (for many years) and latterly a double glazing and ancillary showroom, vacated in 2019. The commercial property fronts onto Thame Road, Chinnor, with the only other commercial properties comprising an upholsterer, a hairdressers and a small convenience store. Surrounding the commercial properties on each side are residential homes and flats. Consequently there is a material difference between the proposed venue in High Wycombe High Street and that proposed in Chinnor, which is predominantly residential in nature. Consequently I consider the proposed venue to be unfit for purpose given the intended nature of its activities, having regard to its location.

·         Additionally, and of key importance, the rest of the subject property, which extends backwards quite some way, has been converted into a total of 10 residential flats, some of whose owners are quite elderly. This approximates to 80% of the floorspace of Nicholls House, over two storeys. It is some time since the flats were converted and it is unlikely that modern day soundproofing techniques will have been used in their conversion. Indeed, it is known that the ground floor flat that adjoins the proposed venue is divided only by a simple internal wall, ie two sheets of plasterboard. It is most likely therefore that the other converted flats will be of similar construction and therefore wholly unsuitable for a business that seems to position itself as a music venue, of both recorded and live music. People who have lived in the flats, in some cases for some time, have a right to an undisturbed and peaceful existence that this type of business, if approved, will severely harm.

·         The roads adjoining Nicholls House are quite narrow and can be difficult to negotiate, particularly Lower Road. Nicholls House itself does not benefit from any material level of dedicated commercial parking, land at the rear being for the residential flats. There is a small car park opposite, on the Bloor development, built 2017-2019, which, as part of the planning conditions, was designed for use by the commercial shops, but this is normally full with local residents’ cars and sundry commercial vehicles from time to time. This therefore offers no level of beneficial parking that the proposed music venue could utilise. Consequently the natural corollary is the vehicles used by the club’s patrons would spill over into the residential estate known as Windmill Chase, to the detriment of local residents as there is, simply, nowhere else to go.

·         The licensing application requests that the venue stay open until 11.30 weekdays and until 1.30am Fridays and Saturdays. Live music is requested until 11pm during the week, until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and with recorded music until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays. Having regard to the indifferent level of soundproofing within the flats, I consider this to be wholly unacceptable to those residents.

·         On the expectation that patrons’ cars will be parked in the Bloor development directly opposite, the level of noise from customers leaving the venue, potentially up to at least 1.30am on Saturday and Sunday mornings, could be considerable, and could be further exacerbated by those patrons chatting to friends and colleagues before actually driving off. Consequently there is a high level of probability that those residents will be materially disadvantaged by the patrons of the music venue.

·         Deliveries of beer and alcohol could not be made to the proposed venue in a way that would be in accordance with the Highway Code. There is a bus stop, followed by a small space that is not the subject of parking restrictions (enough for one car only) then the hatched markings of a zebra crossing. Any delivery vehicle would have to park illegally kerbside to unload and pick up empties, and would provide a visual (and probable physical) obstruction to pedestrians wishing to use both the pavement and zebra crossing when on the side of the subject property.

 

For all of the above reasons therefore I consider that the request for these premises to be used as a music venue and / or night club is unreasonable, and materially out of keeping with the other commercial units in the direct locality. Additionally, no allowance is made for the material nuisance that will arise to local residents, both in terms of any noise emanating from the premises itself and as a consequence of customers leaving the property at any time. As such I OBJECT to the application and ask that it is refused.

 

Yours faithfully

 

REDACTED REDACTED


Appendix I

 

Licensing Team                                                                                 REDACTED REDACTED

South Oxfordshire District Council                                             XX Windmill Close, Chinnor, OX39XXX

135 Eastern Avenue

Milton Park

Abingdon

OX14 4SB                                                                                                            

2/11/2021                                                           

 

Dear Sirs                                                                                              Email; Licensing @southoxon.gov.uk

 

Licensing Act 2003

Notice of Application for a premises licence

Applicant; Toast HQ Ltd

Address – Nicholls House, 4 Thame Road, Chinnor, OX39 4QS

 

I refer to the above-mentioned premises licence request and wish to OBJECT to the application for the following reasons;-

 

·         The proposed operator (Toast HQ Ltd) was incorporated in March 2021 and whilst there is no apparent negative feedback surrounding this company, equally there is no track record that provides comfort that this company can be viewed as a competent and sympathetic operator. This is especially important given the premises that are the subject of this application (see later comments).

·         There is press commentary about a proposed similar application by this company relating to another property in High Wycombe High Street (Bucks Free Press 5/10/21). The press commentary refers to details being ‘vague’, but indicates it seems there will be some sort of bar, with mention of a food preparation area and bench seating - creating a "functional restaurant". The application for Nicholls House seems similarly vague, with the licensing application indicating that late night refreshments will be offered between 11pm and 1am on Fridays and Saturdays only, which seems to imply that this cannot be viewed as a traditional restaurant, the predominance of its activities being that of a drinking establishment and music venue / or nightclub.

·         The primary reasons for objection rest with the subject property itself; the property known as Nicholls House has only ever been a hardware store (for many years) and latterly a double glazing and ancillary showroom, vacated in 2019. The commercial property fronts onto Thame Road, Chinnor, with the only other commercial properties comprising an upholsterer, a hairdressers and a small convenience store. Surrounding the commercial properties on each side are residential homes and flats. Consequently there is a material difference between the proposed venue in High Wycombe High Street and that proposed in Chinnor, which is predominantly residential in nature. Consequently I consider the proposed venue to be unfit for purpose given the intended nature of its activities, having regard to its location.

·         Additionally, and of key importance, the rest of the subject property, which extends backwards quite some way, has been converted into a total of 10 residential flats, some of whose owners are quite elderly. This approximates to 80% of the floorspace of Nicholls House, over two storeys. It is some time since the flats were converted and it is unlikely that modern day soundproofing techniques will have been used in their conversion. Indeed, it is known that the ground floor flat that adjoins the proposed venue is divided only by a simple internal wall, ie two sheets of plasterboard. It is most likely therefore that the other converted flats will be of similar construction and therefore wholly unsuitable for a business that seems to position itself as a music venue, of both recorded and live music. People who have lived in the flats, in some cases for some time, have a right to an undisturbed and peaceful existence that this type of business, if approved, will severely harm.

·         The roads adjoining Nicholls House are quite narrow and can be difficult to negotiate, particularly Lower Road. Nicholls House itself does not benefit from any material level of dedicated commercial parking, land at the rear being for the residential flats. There is a small car park opposite, on the Bloor development, built 2017-2019, which, as part of the planning conditions, was designed for use by the commercial shops, but this is normally full with local residents’ cars and sundry commercial vehicles from time to time. This therefore offers no level of beneficial parking that the proposed music venue could utilise. Consequently the natural corollary is the vehicles used by the club’s patrons would spill over into the residential estate known as Windmill Chase, to the detriment of local residents as there is, simply, nowhere else to go.

·         The licensing application requests that the venue stay open until 11.30 weekdays and until 1.30am Fridays and Saturdays. Live music is requested until 11pm during the week, until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and with recorded music until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays. Having regard to the indifferent level of soundproofing within the flats, I consider this to be wholly unacceptable to those residents.

·         On the expectation that patrons’ cars will be parked in the Bloor development directly opposite, the level of noise from customers leaving the venue, potentially up to at least 1.30am on Saturday and Sunday mornings, could be considerable, and could be further exacerbated by those patrons chatting to friends and colleagues before actually driving off. Consequently there is a high level of probability that those residents will be materially disadvantaged by the patrons of the music venue.

·         Deliveries of beer and alcohol could not be made to the proposed venue in a way that would be in accordance with the Highway Code. There is a bus stop, followed by a small space that is not the subject of parking restrictions (enough for one car only) then the hatched markings of a zebra crossing. Any delivery vehicle would have to park illegally kerbside to unload and pick up empties, and would provide a visual (and probable physical) obstruction to pedestrians wishing to use both the pavement and zebra crossing when on the side of the subject property.

 

For all of the above reasons therefore I consider that the request for these premises to be used as a music venue and / or night club is unreasonable, and materially out of keeping with the other commercial units in the direct locality. Additionally, no allowance is made for the material nuisance that will arise to local residents, both in terms of any noise emanating from the premises itself and as a consequence of customers leaving the property at any time. As such I OBJECT to the application and ask that it is refused.

 

Yours faithfully

 

REDACTED REDACTED


Appendix J

 


 

Appendix K

 

From: REDACTED REDACTED

Sent: 06 November 2021 11:50 AM
To: Licensing South <
licensing@southoxon.gov.uk>
Subject: LAPREM/15431/21

 


Dear Mr Fletcher.

Regarding the application for a Premised License at Nicholls House, 4
Thame Road, Chinnor, OX39 4QS.

As a resident at XX Thame Road, Chinnor, OX39 XXX,  I wish to object to
the grant of license being granted on the following grounds.

1. The prevention of public nuisance. The site is in a residential area
with private dwellings above the premise and behind and would be an
      infringement to their privacy. This also applies to all
surrounding residences and the predominantly elderly residents therein.

2. Public safety. There is no suitable parking for the site. Across the
Thame Road there is private parking area
      for the Windmill Chase residents. Any parking by the clientele of
this site would be infringing on their rights.

3. The prevention of crime and disorder.  In my experience, alcohol,
live music and weekend late night opening times will attract an
undesirable
      culture of drugs to the area.

4. In addition I feel the proposed opening and closing times proposed
are totally out of keeping with this village and the
       surrounding area.

In summary, I find this application totally inappropriate to the culture
of Chinnor and can find NO benefit to it's residents that you represent.

Yours faithfully

REDACTED REDACTED

Mob: REDACTED REDACTED

 


Appendix L

 


Appendix M

 

From: REDACTED REDACTED

Sent: 04 November 2021 17:41
To: Licensing South <licensing@southoxon.gov.uk>
Subject: Licensing Application LAPREM/15431/21

 

 

I would like to object to the above application on the following grounds:-

 

1. The application is for a bar in a small retail unit within a converted property that is largely made up of flats, five of which are connected at some point to the proposed bar. With long licensing hours and recorded or live music this is bound to cause noise problems for those residents as well as those in the vicinity..

2. The property is on a busy main road, between 2 busy road junctions and has no available parking on site. There is a small car park in the new estate opposite which was meant for people visiting the shops on the main road and some of the houses in the new estate. If the licence goes ahead there is potential that people will park along the main roads and the new estate which could make it extremely dangerous for pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles.

 

I do not believe this is an appropriate development of this property.

 

REDACTED REDACTED

XX

Nicholls House

4 Thame Road

Chinnor

OX39 XXX


Appendix N

 

Licensing Team                                                                                                  REDACTED REDACTED

South Oxfordshire District Council                                                 XXXXXXX

135 Eastern Avenue                                                                            XX Thame Road

Milton Park                                                                                             Chinnor

Abingdon                                                                                               Oxon    OX39 XXX

OX14 4SB

4/11/2021

REF:- LAPREM/15431/21.

Dear Sirs                                                      Email; Licensing@southoxon.gov.uk

Licensing Act 2003

Notice of Application for a premises licence

Applicant; Toast HQ Ltd

Address – Nicholls House, 4 Thame Road, Chinnor, OX39 4QS

I refer to the above-mentioned premises licence request and wish to OBJECT to the application for the following reasons;-

 

●  The proposed operator (Toast HQ Ltd) was incorporated in March 2021 and whilst there is no apparent negative feedback surrounding this company, equally there is no track record that provides comfort that this company can be viewed as a competent and sympathetic operator. This is especially important given the premises that are the subject of this application (see later comments).

●  There is press commentary about a proposed similar application by this company relating to another property in High Wycombe High Street (Bucks Free Press 5/10/21). The press commentary refers to details being ‘vague’, but indicates ‘it seems there will be some sort of bar, with mention of a food preparation area and bench seating - creating a "functional restaurant". The application for Nicholls House seems similarly vague, with the licensing application indicating that late night refreshments will be offered between 11pm and 1am on Fridays and Saturdays only, which seems to imply that this cannot be viewed as a traditional restaurant, the predominance of its activities being that of a drinking establishment and music venue / or nightclub.

●  The primary reasons for objection rest with the subject property itself; the property known as Nicholls House has only ever been a hardware store (for many years) and latterly a double glazing and ancillary showroom, vacated in 2019. The commercial property fronts onto Thame Road, Chinnor, with the only other commercial properties comprising an upholsterer, a hairdressers and a small convenience store. Surrounding the commercial properties on each side are residential homes and flats. Consequently there is a material difference between the proposed venue in High Wycombe High Street and that proposed in Chinnor, which is predominantly residential in nature. Consequently I consider the proposed venue to be unfit for purpose given the intended nature of its activities, having regard to its location. In its current configuration there is no fire escape for this premise, nor any likely or alternative access for such.

●  Additionally, and of key importance, the rest of the subject property, which extends

backwards quite some way, has been converted into a total of 10 residential flats, some of whose owners are quite elderly. This approximates to 80% of the floorspace of Nicholls House, over two storeys. It has been some time since the flats were converted and it is unlikely that modern day soundproofing techniques will have been used in their conversion. Indeed, it is known that the ground floor flat that adjoins the proposed venue is divided only by a simple internal wall, i.e. two sheets of plasterboard. It is most likely therefore that the other converted flats will be of similar construction and therefore wholly unsuitable for a business that seems to position itself as a music venue, of both recorded and live music. People who have lived in the flats, in some cases for some time, have a right to an undisturbed and peaceful existence that this type of business, if approved, will severely harm.

●  The roads adjoining Nicholls House are quite narrow and can be difficult to negotiate,

particularly Lower Road. Nicholls House itself does not benefit from any material level of dedicated commercial parking, land at the rear being for the residential flats. There is a small car park opposite, on the Bloor development, built 2017-2019, which, as part of the planning conditions, was designed for use by the commercial shops, but this is normally full with local residents’ cars and sundry commercial vehicles from time to time. This therefore offers no level of beneficial parking that the proposed music venue could utilise. Consequently the natural corollary is the vehicles used by the club’s patrons would spill over into the residential estate known as Windmill Chase, to the detriment of local residents as there is, simply, nowhere else to go.

●  The licensing application requests that the venue stay open until 11.30 weekdays and until 1.30am Fridays and Saturdays. Live music is requested until 11pm during the week, until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and with recorded music until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays. Having regard to the indifferent level of soundproofing within the flats, I consider this to be wholly unacceptable to those residents.

●  On the expectation that patrons’ cars will be parked in the Bloor development directly

opposite, the level of noise from customers leaving the venue, potentially up to at least

1.30am on Saturday and Sunday mornings, could be considerable, and could be further exacerbated by those patrons chatting to friends and colleagues before actually driving off. Consequently there is a high level of probability that those residents will be materially disadvantaged by the patrons of the music venue.

●  Deliveries of beer and alcohol could not be made to the proposed venue in a way that would be in accordance with the Highway Code. There is a bus stop, followed by a small space that is not the subject of parking restrictions (enough for one car only) then the hatched markings of a zebra crossing. Any delivery vehicle would have to park illegally kerbside to unload and pick up empties, and would provide a visual (and probable physical) obstruction to pedestrians wishing to use both the pavement and zebra crossing when on the side of the subject property.

 

For all of the above reasons therefore I consider that the request for these premises to be used as a music venue and / or night club is unreasonable, and materially out of keeping with the other commercial units in the direct locality. Additionally, no allowance is made for the material nuisance that will arise to local residents, both in terms of any noise emanating from the premises itself and as a consequence of customers leaving the property at any time. As such I OBJECT to the application and ask that it is refused.

 

Yours faithfully

REDACTED REDACTED

Tel REDACTED REDACTED

email  REDACTED REDACTED


Appendix O

 

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

X| Mill Lane

CHINNOR

Oxfordshire,  OX39 XXX

Email:  XXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Licensing Team

South Oxfordshire District Council

135 Eastern Avenue

Milton Park

ABINGDON

OX14 4SB

4 November 2021

Dear Sirs

Notice of Application for a premises licence, ref:  LAPREM/15431/21

Applicant: TOAST HQ Ltd

Premises:  Nicholls House, 4 Thame Road, Chinnor, OX39 4QS

We refer to the above mentioned premises and the licence application, to which we wish to OBJECT,  for the following reasons:

1.  The applicant TOAST HQ Ltd appears to be a new company with no track record. There is therefore no similar venues that can be judged for competency or suitability.  Indeed the applicant appears to have made a similar vague application for premises in High Wycombe High Street.

2.  The application is rather vague in that it covers a considerable number of hours of opening, even more than the local pubs in the village. We already have three public houses in the village, two licenced restaurants and three retail outlets selling alcohol. One of the retail outlets, which is in the same parade as the applicant, is open from 0830hrs until 2330hrs on most days.

3.  With this amount of licenced premises we would question why another outlet is necessary in the village. If the purpose is to run as a club then we would fail to see why this is a suitable addition to our village, or indeed any other village. These sort of establishments are more suited to towns, such as High Wycombe, with its student population, or Thame and Princes Risborough.

4.  The location of the premises is in a residential area with no provision for parking for the patrons whom  would, in most cases, presumably be driving there. Whilst there is a small parking area opposite the premises in Mill Lane, this is used regularly by the residents of Windmill Chase and the three small retail units in the same  parade as the applicant. Should parking spill on to Thame Road, Lower Road, Station Road, Mill Lane or Oxford Down, then severe disruption and nuisance would be caused to residents, let alone any hazards created by the parking.

5.  The position of the premises is right by a bus stop and pedestrian crossing, so any deliveries or parking outside would create a hazard;  indeed the convenience store situated in the same parade constantly has hazardous/illegal parking from its shoppers and deliveries.

6. Most of Nicholls House has already been converted into flats, so this new venture would cause severe intrusion into the lives of those residents, particularly with live or recorded music, which tends to be very loud in establishments such as the applicant wants.

7.  The area around Nicholls House is RESIDENTIAL and this was increased three years ago with the Bloor development of Windmill Chase. Indeed further down Mill Lane a further development has been added, with Driftway. The type of establishment being described is most UNSUITABLE for this area. Indeed it is not a suitable addition to any village location.

8.  Live music tends to be very loud. When this happens at the Community Pavilion it can be heard on the Windmill Chase estate, although this situation is very rare. If this was to happen in Nicholls House on a regular basis, as described in the application, then our lives would be severely disrupted.

9.  Establishments such as the application describes tend to be noisy, not only inside the premises, but also when the patrons leave the premises. This will have a serious effect on the properties around Nicholls House.

10. We are told that business and leisure premises, such as described, need to be well ventilated, in order to suppress the transmission of Covid.  This would most likely lead to more noise causing an excessive nuisance to the nearby residential properties.

11. Whilst the applicant is vague as to the precise use of the premises, it is not unreasonable to conclude that it would be a club of some sort. These sort of premises are often highlighted as sources of antisocial behaviour. If this was the case, then allowing  this application,  could start a source of illegal drugs in the village, which would be foolhardy.

12. Establishments such as that described seem to attract a considerable number of customers that think waste can be thrown away anywhere. We collect weekly a plastic bag full of bottles, cans, cigarette packets, confectionery wrappers, general food wrappings, discarded masks and many other items from the car park and borders and green in Mill Lane as well as the bus stop and grass verge opposite Nicholls House. This is despite there being a waste bin at the bus stop. We would be surprised if this application was granted that litter would not increase.

13. Establishments similar to that being proposed often only allow smoking outside, creating more litter and general noise.

14. We are both over 70 years old and came to Chinnor as it was a quiet village. We sincerely hope this doesn’t  change. We would be severly effected by any noise/nuisance as we are virtually opposite the premises, being in Mill Lane some 40 yards away.

For all the above reasons we feel that the granting of a licence for the premises concerned is totally inappropriate and in no way in keeping with either the local area or the village itself. As such we OBJECT to this application and respectively ask for it to be refused.

Yours faithfully

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX


Appendix P

 

 


Appendix Q

 

 


Appendix R

 

From: REDACTED REDACTED

Sent: 05 November 2021 09:03 PM
To: Licensing South <
licensing@southoxon.gov.uk>
Subject: Re Premises Licence Application 4 Nicholls House Chinnor OX39 4QS

 

 

Dear Sir/Madam,

 

As an owner of a studio flat in Nicholls House, I'm emailing you to object to the application for a licence to serve alcohol, and play live music in the building.

 

The majority of the building is residential, as is the surrounding area. The properties are not adequately sound proofed against music being played at such close quarters.

 

Also, there is insufficient parking in the area. Thame Road is not safe to park on, and opposite the parking areas are for the housing estate.

 

I hope you will take note of my objection, and refuse the application.

 

Regards,

 

REDACTED REDACTED

XXX Nicholls House, 4 Thame Road, Chinnor, Oxfordshire, OX39 XXX.

 


Appendix S

 


Appendix T

 

Licensing Team                                                                                    XCXXXXXXXX

South Oxfordshire District Council                                   Fourways

135 Eastern Avenue                                                              XX Station Road

Milton Park                                                                               Chinnor

Abingdon                                                                                 OX39 XXX

OX14 4SB

08/11/2021

REF:- LAPREM/15431/21.

Dear Sirs                                                                                  Email; Licensing@southoxon.gov.uk

 

Licensing Act 2003

Notice of Application for a premises licence

Applicant; Toast HQ Ltd

Address – Nicholls House, 4 Thame Road, Chinnor, OX39 4QS

 

I refer to the above-mentioned premises licence request and wish to OBJECT to the application for the following reasons;-

 

●  The proposed operator (Toast HQ Ltd) was incorporated in March 2021 and whilst there is no apparent negative feedback surrounding this company, equally there is no track record that provides comfort that this company can be viewed as a competent and sympathetic operator. This is especially important given the premises that are the subject of this application (see later comments).

●  There is press commentary about a proposed similar application by this company relating to another property in High Wycombe High Street (Bucks Free Press 5/10/21). The press commentary refers to details being ‘vague’, but indicates ‘it seems there will be some sort of bar, with mention of a food preparation area and bench seating - creating a "functional restaurant". The application for Nicholls House seems similarly vague, with the licensing application indicating that late night refreshments will be offered between 11pm and 1am on Fridays and Saturdays only, which seems to imply that this cannot be viewed as a traditional restaurant, the predominance of its activities being that of a drinking establishment and music venue / or nightclub.

●  The primary reasons for objection rest with the subject property itself; the property known as Nicholls House has only ever been a hardware store (for many years) and latterly a double glazing and ancillary showroom, vacated in 2019. The commercial property fronts onto Thame Road, Chinnor, with the only other commercial properties comprising an upholsterer, a hairdressers and a small convenience store. Surrounding the commercial properties on each side are residential homes and flats. Consequently there is a material difference between the proposed venue in High Wycombe High Street and that proposed in Chinnor, which is predominantly residential in nature. Consequently I consider the proposed venue to be unfit for purpose given the intended nature of its activities, having regard to its location.

●  Additionally, and of key importance, the rest of the subject property, which extends

backwards quite some way, has been converted into a total of 10 residential flats, some of whose owners are quite elderly. This approximates to 80% of the floorspace of Nicholls House, over two storeys. It has been some time since the flats were converted and it is unlikely that modern day soundproofing techniques will have been used in their conversion. Indeed, it is known that the ground floor flat that adjoins the proposed venue is divided only by a simple internal wall, i.e. two sheets of plasterboard. It is most likely therefore that the other converted flats will be of similar construction and therefore wholly unsuitable for a business that seems to position itself as a music venue, of both recorded and live music. People who have lived in the flats, in some cases for some time, have a right to an undisturbed and peaceful existence that this type of business, if approved, will severely harm.

●  The roads adjoining Nicholls House are quite narrow and can be difficult to negotiate,

particularly Lower Road. Nicholls House itself does not benefit from any material level of dedicated commercial parking, land at the rear being for the residential flats. There is a small car park opposite, on the Bloor development, built 2017-2019, which, as part of the planning conditions, was designed for use by the commercial shops, but this is normally full with local residents’ cars and sundry commercial vehicles from time to time. This therefore offers no level of beneficial parking that the proposed music venue could utilise. Consequently the natural corollary is the vehicles used by the club’s patrons would spill over into the residential estate known as Windmill Chase, to the detriment of local residents as there is, simply, nowhere else to go.

●  The licensing application requests that the venue stay open until 11.30 weekdays and until 1.30am Fridays and Saturdays. Live music is requested until 11pm during the week, until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and with recorded music until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays. Having regard to the indifferent level of soundproofing within the flats, I consider this to be wholly unacceptable to those residents.

●  On the expectation that patrons’ cars will be parked in the Bloor development directly

opposite, the level of noise from customers leaving the venue, potentially up to at least

1.30am on Saturday and Sunday mornings, could be considerable, and could be further exacerbated by those patrons chatting to friends and colleagues before actually driving off. Consequently there is a high level of probability that those residents will be materially disadvantaged by the patrons of the music venue.

●  Deliveries of beer and alcohol could not be made to the proposed venue in a way that would be in accordance with the Highway Code. There is a bus stop, followed by a small space that is not the subject of parking restrictions (enough for one car only) then the hatched markings of a zebra crossing. Any delivery vehicle would have to park illegally kerbside to unload and pick up empties, and would provide a visual (and probable physical) obstruction to pedestrians wishing to use both the pavement and zebra crossing when on the side of the subject property.

●  Chinnor is already serviced by 4 establishments which have a bar, with 2 serving food and having live music on a regular basis.  Therefore, it would seem Chinnor, as a small village, is already adequately served by drinking / food establishments.

 

For all of the above reasons therefore I consider that the request for these premises to be used as a music venue and / or night club is unreasonable, and materially out of keeping with the other commercial units in the direct locality. Additionally, no allowance is made for the material nuisance that will arise to local residents, both in terms of any noise emanating from the premises itself and as a consequence of customers leaving the property at any time. As such I OBJECT to the application and ask that it is refused.

 


Appendix U

 


Appendix V

 

 

From: REDACTED REDACTED

Sent: 08 November 2021 04:20 PM

To: Licensing South <licensing@southoxon.gov.uk>

Subject: Re: LAPREM/15431/21

 

 

Dear Sir/Madam,

 

Re: Licensing Application LAPREM/15431/21 4Thame Rd, Chinnor

 

I wish to make the following comments and objections to this proposed development:

 

I would say that this is a wholly inappropriate application as, although the premises are on the main Thame road, they are situated within a largely residential area and music/noise every day and up to 1.30 a.m on Fridays and Saturdays is wholly inappropriate.

If it's the building I am thinking of, which used to be the office of Silent View windows, there are flats over the top of the premises which are privately owned and their life would, I imagine, be hell if they have this level of noise every night as it is proposed that it will be open to at least 11 on most nights.

There is no way in which the owners could prevent people who have been to the premises causing noise and nuisance when they leave late at night. There is no car parking I am aware of apart from the small area opposite the building, which is not large or suitable enough for parking for a restaurant/night club.

It is really not clear from the submission to the council exactly what the nature of the business is that the owner (Toast) is proposing and I am not reassured by the things which she proposes to do to mitigate noise and nuisance. The potential for drunk people (and probably drugs circulating) is pretty high - Chinnor is just not large enough nor does it have the policing available to be able to support such a premises.

I should say that where I am in Mill Lane near the school, we are unlikely to be directly affected so my comments are based solely on the effect on the area around the proposed venue and the very "woolly" outline on the District Council website, which appears to be deliberately vague on exactly what will be offered.

I hope that the licensing authority will not support this application.

Thanks

REDACTED REDACTED

XX Mill Lane, Chinnor

 

 


Appendix W

 

From: REDACTED REDACTED

Sent: 09 November 2021 02:09 PM
To: Licensing South <
licensing@southoxon.gov.uk>
Subject: Objection to Premises Licence: Reference LAPREM/15431/21

 

 

Good afternoon

 

This is an objection to Toast HQ's application for a Premises License (LAPREM/15431/21) at Nicholls House, 4 Thame Road, Chinnor OX39 4QS. 

 

I wish to object because the grant of this licence will impact the licensing objective of the prevention of public nuisance for the following reasons:  

1.       The premises are in a residential area.  Chinnor already has a number outlets serving food during daytime opening hours plus there are three pubs operating standard licensing hours.  Therefore, the concern is that the draw of the Toast premises will be the later opening hours particularly on Saturdays and Sundays with the premises being open to 1.30am. Even though the applicant has stated that “noise/vibration will be maintained at an appropriate level with neighbours in mind” and “we do not anticipate any noise above background music level and chatter”, there will definitely be a detrimental impact on residents’ quality of life. 

2.       Chinnor is a quiet village and we are worried about increased human traffic at late hours in a residential area around Thame Road, Mill Lane, Station Road and Lower Road.  The impact will be an increased likelihood of noise pollution and nuisance. 

 

I also wish to object because the grant of this licence will impact the licensing objective of the prevention of crime and disorder for the following reasons: 

1.       There are already three public houses in Chinnor so the village is well-catered in terms of alcohol and entertainment opportunities, plus there four retail outlets selling alcohol. Having another business focused around the sale of alcohol seems unnecessary and will contribute to anti-social behaviour including nuisance and the supply and use of illegal drugs. 

2.       Increased human traffic/activity at late hours in a largely residential area around Thame Road, Mill Lane, Station Road and Lower Road means there is an increased likelihood of anti-social behaviour. 

 

 

Regards  

REDACTED REDACTED

XX Mill Lane 

Chinnor 

OX39 XXX 

 


Appendix X

 

 

From: REDACTED REDACTED
Sent: 10 November 2021 10:15 AM
To: Licensing South <
licensing@southoxon.gov.uk>
Cc: Liz Folley <
chinnorpc@btconnect.com>
Subject: LAPREM/15431/21

 

Our comments on the above licencing application are below and attached.

 

We would like to make the following comments regarding the above licence application which is inappropriate in a village setting:

The prevention of public nuisance

The premises are in a residential area and opposite a new housing estate which includes many young families. The current businesses in the area include an upholstery workshop, a hairdressing salon, a convenience store and a café which do not operate late at night. Patrons of the proposed site would spill out onto the pavement and surrounding area to smoke. The ‘unrestricted public car park’ opposite is used by residents rarely with any spare spaces. This would lead to patrons parking on local roads in an area which has two junctions and a zebra crossing and limited on street parking.

The premises would not only open before other local pubs within the village and surrounding area, but more importantly would remain open after other establishments in the area have closed, therefore attracting more traffic and potentially loud pedestrians who would be leaving the premises late at night or in the early hours of the morning thus disturbing the many local residents.

Public safety

It is unclear if there is a rear entrance to the property. If not, this would mean that any deliveries would be made through the front door which is on a main road by a zebra crossing, in between two T junctions and opposite a bus stop. This has the potential to lead to a dangerous situation for pedestrians and traffic.

It is unclear what provisions would be made for a fire exit if there is no rear or side entrance.

REDACTED REDACTED, XX Mill Lane, Chinnor, OX39 XXX

 

 


Appendix Y

 

Licensing Act 2003

Application for Premises Licence Ref: LAPREM/15431/21

Address: X Thame Road, CHINNOR, OX39 XXX

 

My name is REDACTED and I am the owner of XXXX Nicholls House which is situated directly above the application premises.

I refer to the above mentioned premises licence application and wish strongly to OBJECT for the following reasons:

 

·         The property is situated in a primarily residential area.

·         Nicholls House primarily consists of 10 residential dwellings which covers some 80% of the overall floor space.

·         With the exception of an upholsterer, a hairdresser and a small convenience store the remaining area is residential.

·         The intended use of the application site is not fit for purpose within this residential location.

·         It has been sometime since the flats were converted and therefore would not be to the appropriate level of sound proofing.

·         The proposal to allow patrons to leave up to 1.30am would create unacceptable levels of noise and nuisance.

·         Patrons could congregate outside on the pavement creating a noise and disturbance.

·         There is no private outdoor space to accommodate the patrons.

·         The congregating of patrons outside could lead to general lack of safety in a residential area.

·         Drinking could lead to an increase of crime.

·         Public safety will be compromised.

·         An increased footfall within this residential area will lead to safety issues and traffic congestion.

·         There is no parking associated with this property which would leave patrons parking in Thame Road which would create traffic congestion with all the safety considerations associated with that.

·         Deliveries would be an issue as the vehicles would need to park on Thame Road or the pavement causing a physical obstruction to pedestrians along with associated noise disturbance.

·         Patrons will park in the new residential development opposite the application site causing a noise and general disturbance to residents.

For all the reasons stated above I therefore consider that the request for these premises to be used as a music venue and or nightclub is totally unreasonable and materially out of keeping within a residential area.

Additionally no allowance is made for the material nuisance that will arise to local residents both in terms of noise emulating from the premises itself and as a consequence of customers congregating outside and leaving the property at unsociable hours.

As such I strongly OBJECT to this application and trust that you do not allow the proposal to be granted approval.

 

Yours Faithfully

REDACTED REDACTED

 


Appendix Z

 

Licensing Team                                                                                                    XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX                    South Oxfordshire District Council                                                     XX Mill Lane                                      135 Eastern Avenue                                                                             Chinnor                                         Milton Park                                                                                              Oxon                                                Abingdon                                                                                                OX39 XXX                                       OX14 4SB

                                                                                                                  10th November 2021

 

To whom it may concern,

Nicholls House, 4 Thame Road, Chinnor, OX39 4QS                                                                                Section 17 Licensing Act 2003                                                                                                                                   Reference: LAPREM/15431/21                                                                                                                         Toast HQ Ltd

We are writing with regards to the above application for a Premises License for sale of alcohol, recorded/live music and late-night refreshments within licensed hours which we strongly object against;

Location and Noise concerns

Nicholls House is situated in our beautiful picturesque village of Chinnor. The premises are attached and surround by a number a residential flats which have been modified since the original building was constructed. Therefore, in our opinion is not suitable for a venue serving alcohol with live music and late opening hours. The premises are also surrounded by a high number of dwellings, affecting those residing on the Thame Road, Mill Lane, Oxford Down, Windmill Close, Malyns Close, Dimbles Gate, Lower Road, Station Road and Van Diemens Close. This is not helped by the area to the front of the building being extremely “echoey” due to the open space directly opposite surrounded by a number of dwellings. For example, conversations in the bus stop, on the road, outside the shop can be heard within the proximity. The local Chinnor Silver Band can be heard clearly from Lower Road when they are practicing therefore, we strongly suspect we are going to suffer from noise pollution of unwelcoming live music when being played from a closer proximity.

Live music and late licensing hours are simply not acceptable or fitting for the location. It will cause an unacceptable level of excessive noise to our sleepy village during the day and especially at night.

 

Parking

We assume that the carpark opposite the premises will be the suggested location to accommodate visiting customers. It should be pointed out that the carpark is already used heavily by local residents and it is also there to support the shops and businesses surrounding Nicholls House. The car park is full to capacity already much of the time. If customers are unable to park in the carpark, they will park either on the road, on pavements or on residential streets (mainly Windmill Chase, the newly built Bloor development) which is not suitable. Mill Lane already has its safety challenges due to the poor design of the newly adapted road junctions and for cars to park on the road will increase the risk of accidents. This is without taking into account the noise, fumes and disturbances late at night when customers return to their cars, waiting for transportation or walking home. There has also been reports of antisocial behaviour to our local community Police Officer due to car groups and drug dealing / activity in the car park along with litter as well. An alcohol and late license will only encourage more unruly and noisy activity.

 

Deliveries

How will deliveries be made to the premise? There is a bus stop and pedestrian crossing outside the venue which already causes traffic issues during busy periods. Many have witnessed near misses on the pedestrian crossing when drivers are obstructed by parked vehicles that shouldn't be parked on staggered lines. Again, this is a risk to causing accidents or injury to pedestrians/children.

 

General Concerns

How do we know that the company who has made this application has the knowledge and experience to run a late licensed premise? Will they be respectful to the community? What security will they have on hand to prevent there being any disturbances to the neighbours.

We have The Pavilion within a few minutes’ walk away which is the perfect place for live bands and late licensing. We thoroughly enjoy this venue; we do not need another. We also have three lovely pubs which again are enjoyed by the locals with the landlords being respectful to the residents. We are not aware of these being open until 1am.

With all of our above comments, Nicholls House, 4 Thame Road, Chinnor is not a suitable venue for a sale of alcohol, for late opening hours and certainly not for recorded and live music to be played. We strongly object against this application and request for this application to be refused.

With Regards

 

 

 

REDACTED REDACTED

 

cc. licensing@southoxon.gov.uk & chinnorpc@btconnect.com

 

 


Appendix AA

 

 

From: REDACTED REDACTED
Sent: 10 November 2021 13:46
To: Licensing South <licensing@southoxon.gov.uk>
Subject: LAPREM/15431121

 

Objection to opening hour with live/recorded music

 

Reason : No soundproofing between internal walls in which above and attached are residential .

 

When no 4 Thame Road was occupied you were able to hear doors shutting and toilet flushing and the flat above you were able to hear washing machine, hoovering and toddler running about.

 

Opening hours until 1am in the morning is really not acceptable.

 

REDACTED REDACTED

 

REDACTED REDACTED

XX Thame Road 

Chinnor 

Oxon

Ox39 XXX

 

REDACTED REDACTED

 


 

Appendix AB

 

 

From: REDACTED REDACTED

Sent: 11 November 2021 01:13
To: Licensing South <licensing@southoxon.gov.uk>
Subject: Ref: LAPREM/15431/21

 

 

Dear Sir/Madam

 

I am writing to object to the application by Toast with regard to Nicholls House, 4 Thame Road, Chinnor OX39 4QS.

 

It is unclear from the lack of information provided by the applicant on your website as to what is proposed with regard to the nature of the venue. The main intention at the moment seems to be to gain a licence to sell alcohol for long hours, with music, live or not. I’m sure you have received detailed submissions with regard to the problems with this – and I share these concerns:

 

·         noise pollution particularly for those in the flats immediately around the premises

·         lack of parking for those visiting the premises

·         lack of legal parking space for deliveries, especially given the proximity of a zebra crossing

·         unsociably late hours, especially on Fridays and Saturdays, for such a premises to be open in what is basically a residential area

 

This is just a summary of my objections – please let me know if you wish me to amplify them.

 

Yours faithfully

REDACTED REDACTED

XX Thame Road, Chinnor, OX39 XXX

 


Appendix AC

 

From: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
To: licensing@southoxon.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, 10 Nov, 2021 At 16:54
Subject: LAPREM/15431/21

Dear Sir,

 

I have noted the advice of application for a Premises Licence at Nicholls House, 4 Thame Road, Chinnor OX39 4QS and wish to make a strong objection to this application. The property is surrounded by houses and backs directly onto Malyns Close and any music (recorded or live) will have a detrimental effect on what is now a quiet cul de sac, peopled by a number of senior citizens.

 

This is over and above the effect the premises change of use will have at the front of the property, on the busy (and increasingly busy) main road through the village of Chinnor from Thame. There is insufficient parking outside the premises, the corner just a few yards away from the entrance is extremely congested at peak times with lorries and buses often resorting to mounting the pavements, and the viability of such a project must be very doubtful in the best of times. A number of Public Houses in the village have been forced to close in the last 10 years through lack of support and another licensed premises is just not required.

 

The opening hours applied for cannot be allowed in such a built up area; the Village Hall and the Sports Pavilion in Station Road are not allowed to hold music events later than 11.00 pm, so there can be no justification for allowing music until 1.00am on any night.

 

Please advise me further, if any additional representation is required.

 

Yours faithfully,

 

XXXXXXXXX

XXXXXXXXXXXX

XX Malyns Close, Chinnor, Oxon OX39 XXX


Appendix AD

 


Appendix AE

 

 


Appendix AF

 


Appendix AG

 

From: REDACTED
Sent: 04 November 2021 12:49
To: Fletcher, Charlie <charlie.fletcher@southandvale.gov.uk>
Subject: Re: Premises License TOAST HQ Ltd

 

Good Afternoon Charlie,

 

My full address is- XX lower Road, Chinnor, OX39 XXX

Name- REDACTED

 

Thank you for getting back to me. In response to your email I would like to state my objections as followed.

 

I wish to object because the grant of this licence will impact the licensing objective of the prevention of public nuisance. The area surrounding this licensing objective is a residential area and is not situated on a prominent high street where this is expected. In addition this is a main road where there is no specific car park situated specifically for the venue. The only car park near is opposite which is currently always full in the day time and night time by residents of the new housing estate. This would mean cars parking along the double yellow road outside the premises causing serious congestion and nuisance to residents at very unsociable hours.

 

In addition to this, in the application it states music will be played till late which I believe is highly inappropriate due to the fact that there is a flat situated behind the premises and flats and residential housing above and in the close proximity of the venue.

 

I also wish to object because the grant of this licence will impact the licensing objective of the public safety and The protection of children from harm. I believe this because this licensing premises is based on a main road opposite a bus stop which is permanently in use of school busses throughout the whole day. This would mean putting the risk of children’s safety in harm. Not only getting on and off the bus but crossing the road as there will be an abundance of cars situated outside this venue through all hours of the day making it difficult for children to cross the road and will make it hard for them to be seen especially in the winter months when it gets darker earlier in the day. 

 

Also as I previously stated, my shop is situated two shops down from the grant of this licence and my car park entrance is situated along this road too. I believe this will severely impact the public safety. This is because cars and taxis will be parking in front of the entrance to my car park and my entrance which will impact the safety of my customers. Who may I add are a lot of children. It would seem the location of this proposed plan should be situated in a busy high street with other late opening shops or a location where a car park is available solely for this business. This location would seem completely absurd.

 

I hope you take into account my views on this matter.

 

Many thanks,

REDACTED


 

Appendix AH – Statement of applicant

 

 


Appendix AI – Premises concept

 


Appendix AJ - Additional conditions

 

 


Appendix AK - Map

 

Approximate locations of persons who have submitted representations, marked in blue, and location of premises, marked in yellow. Scale 1:2500