The Crescent Bar & Grill owner Jenny Macdonald made her case to renew the pub’s on- and off-licences, and her certificate, during a hearing before the Clutha District Licensing Committee in Balclutha yesterday.
Balclutha police, represented by prevention sergeant Chris Parsons, said they opposed all three renewals on grounds of suitability of amenity and good order.
Since April 2021, police had recorded 10 incidents — ranging from drink-driving to assault — occurring at or linked to the pub, Sgt Parsons said.
In what was a key incident discussed at length by both police and Ms Macdonald’s counsel Andrew Belcher, a disagreement over procedure had occurred between Sgt Parsons, Ms Macdonald and the pub’s duty manager Kirsty Nolan on October 30, 2021.
The incident involved patrons who, after earlier being identified as intoxicated by Sgt Parsons and removed from the Rosebank Lodge in Balclutha, then repaired to the Crescent Bar via courtesy coach.
Sgt Parsons again identified one of the two intoxicated men during a routine check at the Crescent Bar and, in line with protocol, suggested Ms Nolan consider his removal due to intoxicated and belligerent behaviour.
After the man and his companion had left, Sgt Parsons said he had reviewed the incident with Ms Macdonald and Ms Nolan outside the pub, in an attempt to de-escalate the situation.
However, part way through discussions, Ms Macdonald had returned to the pub, saying, "it’s no wonder everyone hates you guys", in reference to the police, Sgt Parsons said.
Ms Nolan left shortly after, and immediately called last orders, he said.
This action risked aggravating the situation with the suggestion police had "shut the pub down" that night, Sgt Parsons said.
This was just one incident supporting his opposition to the renewal of Ms Macdonald’s licences and certificate, he said.
In closing statements on behalf of Ms Macdonald, Mr Belcher said he did not believe police had provided sufficient sworn evidence of alcohol-related harm arising at or from the pub.
He acknowledged some incidents of intoxication may have "slipped through the net", but suggested the pub’s amenity to the town meant its closure would cause more harm than good.
The pub would be willing to consider measures such as earlier closing times and increased security in order to address some of the concerns raised, Mr Belcher said.
The committee expects to deliver its decision within 20 working days.
