North Shields micropub granted licence despite petition

Councillors have approved an alcohol licence for a new micropub in North Shields.

North Tyneside Council's licensing sub-committee have granted a licence for the Tipsy Pig micropub, on 12A Russell Street. The premises can now serve alcohol between 10am and 9.30 pm on Sunday to Thursday and 10am to 10.30pm on Friday and Saturday.

However, the application generated a petition, totalling 46 signatures, from locals opposing the use of the space as a micropub. The petition highlighted concerns over potential public nuisance in the light of a previous venture in the same building, Studio 12A, which saw complaints to the police.

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The Tipsy Pig is a separate application and is not connected to the previous business.

Local Tara Alisandratos, speaking in opposition to the licence application, said: "We get loads of noise coming out of the other bars from North Shields down past us to get home, there are quite a few fights that happen outside of our house."

Tara continued: "It is already quite a problem there is a lot of action around the town centre now so we are just really concerned that adding another pub to that, we are not stating that the people who would use that pub would be troublemakers in any way, but we just don't want to add to the problem."

However, the applicant, Debbie Stevens said: "We are committed to creating a welcoming, controlled, and responsible environment that prioritises community harmony and complies fully with the four licensing objectives."

Debbie continued: "Prevention of crime and disorder, we are fully aware of the concerns related to this potential, however, our pub stands apart from past problematic venues, we will implement a challenge 25 policy to prevent underage drinking, ensure all staff are trained and recognise signs of intoxication and manage potential disorderly conduct."

In addition, the applicant told the committee the micropub would have a log book, to document refusals of service, have only background music, and engage with neighbours, the local authority, and the police. Ms Stevens also told the committee the Tipsy Pig would close earlier than many surrounding pubs in North Shields.

The application also states it aims to attract a "mature clientele", offering primarily craft beers, with a small selection of ales, wines, spirits, and lagers. Following a discussion between councillors on the committee, the application was granted, with the added condition that the Tipsy Pig would house no more than 40 patrons at any one time and seating will be provided for no less than 36.