Bedford Borough Council’s licensing sub-committee has approved a new premises licence for Maison Le Vôtre, a coffee shop and patisserie at 58A High Street.
It can now sell alcohol from 9am to 10.30pm, seven days a week – once a designated premises supervisor (DPS) has been appointed and approved, although the sale of alcohol is restricted between 9am and 10am.
The decision followed a hearing last week (1 December) where councillors considered objections from neighbouring businesses, alongside the application and the council’s licensing policy.
Objectors raised concerns about noise, antisocial behaviour, public nuisance and the protection of children from harm.
However, the sub-committee noted that none of the responsible authorities had submitted objections to the application.
However, the council’s Environmental Health Service proposed a condition requiring the outside seating area at the front of the premises to be kept clean and tidy while the business is open.
This condition was agreed by the applicant and attached to the licence.
In its written decision, the sub-committee said it had considered the application in line with the Licensing Act 2003, the council’s Statement of Licensing Policy 2023–2027 and national Home Office guidance.
The licence has been granted without a designated premises supervisor (DPS). As a result, no alcohol can be sold until a DPS is formally appointed and approved by the licensing authority.
The council said members of the public can report concerns about crime, disorder, noise nuisance or breaches of licence conditions to the relevant authorities.
Parties who took part in the hearing have the right to appeal the decision to the magistrates’ court within 21 days of notification.
by John Guinn
Local Democracy Reporter
