POLICE have used new powers to successfully apply for a closure order of a late night bar in Warrington town centre following a serious fight within Fusion Bar and Grill on Bridge Street.
The Anti-Social Behavior, Crime and Police Act 2014 came into force in October and this is the first time that the powers have been used to close licensed premises in Cheshire. Under the act officers are now able to apply for closure orders at premises where somebody is, or has been, causing distress or nuisance.
The initial closure notice for Fusion Bar and Grill, 122 ? 126 Bridge Street, Warrington was issued following a serious fight within the premises in the early hours of Thursday, December 4. This led to a hearing a Warrington Magistrates Court yesterday (Tuesday) on the conclusion of which a Closure Order was made for the maximum period of three months.
The court order means that no-one is allowed into Fusion Bar for a period of three months, and anyone who does enter is liable to arrest and up to six months? prison, or a £5,000 fine, or both.
Superintendent Martin Cleworth said: “I am pleased with the outcome of this case given the number and serious nature of incidents that had taken place within this premises over recent weeks that were compromising the safety of the town centre.
“We are wholly committed to do all we can to make Warrington town centre a safe and vibrant place for people to enjoy. We will act robustly against those who commit acts of crime and antisocial behavior and address premises that fail to fulfill their obligations under the Licensing Act.”
Over the next three months regular checks of the premises will be conducted to ensure the closure order is not breached.
Superintendent Cleworth added: “I urge anyone who is concerns about anti-social behaviour and alcohol related crime in their local community to contact us on 101.”
Alternatively residents can report information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Police secure closure of late night bar following serious fight
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Gary Skentelbery
Experienced journalist for more than 40 years. Managing Director of magazine publishing group with three in-house titles and on-line daily newspaper for Warrington. Experienced writer, photographer, PR consultant and media expert having written for local, regional and national newspapers. Specialties: PR, media, social networking, photographer, networking, advertising, sales, media crisis management. Chair of Warrington Healthwatch Director Warrington Chamber of Commerce Patron Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace. Trustee Warrington Disability Partnership. Former Chairman of Warrington Town FC.
