Booze review is a tonic for business

Reporter: BEATRIZ AYALA
Date online: 25 November 2009

BUSINESS interest in Oldham town centre is on the rise following a recent booze review.

A total of 21 licensed premises in Oldham town centre were the focus of the Trading Standards review in April.

It was undertaken following concerns about anti-social behaviour and irresponsible drinks promotions.

The result was 19 premises agreeing to different conditions on their licence, such as increased security.

Brownz Wine Bar, in Yorkshire Street, had its licence revoked, and The Mess House had no conditions attached to its licence.

Tony Allen, head of Oldham’s Trading Standards department, said there were early signs of businesses other than pubs and clubs wanting to invest in Oldham following the review.

He added that residents had also said they felt safer coming into Oldham on a night out.

Speaking at yesterday’s Licensing Regulatory Committee meeting, he said: “We were expecting more of a legal battle with licence holders but they were more engaged and wanted to work with us.

“They saw the state of Oldham town centre and they have been very positive.

“We are pleased with the outcome of the review.”

Trading Standards officers are now focusing on alcohol sales in supermarkets and have written to all 17 in the borough.

Officers cannot control the sale price in supermarkets, but they can restrict where alcohol is sold in the store, such as away from the front entrance.