Controversial plans for late licence at pub

A pub in Wolverhampton, outside which a man was repeatedly stabbed, has applied to extend its licensing hours.

The licensee of the Old Ash Tree in Dudley Road, Blakenhall, wants to serve alcohol and play music until 4.30am, seven days a week.

It comes after a 25-year-old man was repeatedly stabbed outside the venue on April 2. A 45-year-old man from Bilston has been arrested and released on bail in connection with the attack.

Residents have raised concerns over the proposals to extend the hours, saying there are already problems of litter, broken bottles, noise and unsocial behaviour outside the pub.

Blakenhall ward councillors John Rowley, Judith Rowley and Bob Jones have all objected to the plans, as well as West Midlands Police.

In a letter to the council, licensing officer at Wolverhampton Central police station Pc Natalie Holt says: "A serious incident occurred at the premises during the early hours of Sunday April 3 where a male was stabbed.

"It is with this in mind that West Midlands Police are adamant that the proposals are wholly inadequate for such a late licence."

It goes on to say the police have "grave concerns" that permitting the licence will lead to further crime and disorder.

The pub's existing hours are Monday to Saturday, 10am to 11pm, and Sunday from midday to 10.30pm. But if the council approves this latest application it will be open, Monday to Sunday, from 9am to 4.30am.

In a report, licensee Samantha Samuels, who has been at the pub for the last 12 months, said: "On weekends we hope to provide musical entertainment in the form of mainly reggae music. I understand that our music can be very 'bassy' and can cause disturbance to those residents nearby, but I can honestly say that in the 12 months that we have been responsible for The Old Ash Tree I have never been made aware of any issues in relation to noise disturbance.

"The application of the hours is necessary for us to ensure the viability of the future of our business."

A 38-name petition in support of the application to vary the licence has also been sent in to the council.

There has been a promise of door staff to supervise any events that run until 4.30am.

Wolverhampton City Council's licensing sub-committee will make a decision on the variation of the premises licence at a meeting this Wednesday.