New bar is to open in Broadstone – despite fears it'll 'attract undesirables'

Members of a BCP Council licensing sub-committee gave the green light for Whittles to open in the former Irene’s store on Tuesday.

The decision came despite concerns from people living nearby about the effect noise and nuisance would have on their lives.

Planning permission for the new business to take over the building on the corner of Station Approach and Dunyeats has already been granted.

But the licence application, lodged last year, prompted a number of objections to be submitted.

They said a previously suggested 1am closing time was “excessively late” and that it would be “an attraction to undesirables”.

Council leader Vikki Slade, who represents the Broadstone ward, also objected but, said she had come close to withdrawing it following a meeting with business owner Martyn Banyard.

Speaking at Tuesday’s meeting, Mr Banyard said: “Our aim is to provide a high end restaurant and bar which we feel is needed and beneficial to the Broadstone area.

“We have had great feedback and support for this venture which we believe will be a great success.”

He said he had brought forward the proposed closing time following a meeting with the residents of the nearby retirement complex Waterman House.

Cllr Slade said she had been “reassured” by the restaurant’s owners about their intentions for the site and her only remaining concern was with a midnight closing time on Thursdays.

“The arrival of Whittles to Broadstone is very welcome – we have seen the sad demise of a number of similar businesses recently,” she said.

“I think this is something Broadstone could really use and I really want this business to thrive.”

The sub-committee agreed to grant the licence on the condition that its staff are able to provide CCTV footage of any incident if requested and that its outside area is not used after 11pm on any day.

Speaking after the meeting, Mr Banyard said he hoped the restaurant would open in April.