Micropub vows to breathe life back into village

OWNERS of a new micropub are promising to help breathe life back into a Tyneside town.

Gateshead Council granted a licence for the new drinking spot, The Lane Head in Ryton, despite some residents feeling “very upset” about the plans.

A licensing sub-committee heard that, in a bid to allay fears about a potential increase in anti-social behaviour and noise in the village, the micropub had agreed to cut its opening hours and enforce a strict ban on drinking outside its Main Road building.

Applicant Doug Musgrove, speaking alongside business partner Edward Robson, said: “Over the last few years we have seen that Ryton and Crawcrook are going downhill when it comes to socialising and it is worrying.

“What we want to try and do is bring life back into the village.

“The shop has been empty for nearly a year. It is only going to be a magnet for anti-social behaviour if it doesn’t become used.”

Coun Freda Geddes, representing a number of Ryton residents who objected to the plans, told the committee that some people felt their concerns had not been listened to.

She said: “They are concerned about the extent of noise and nuisance caused to them if the licence is granted. The previous occupant was a bookmakers and although they would still have customers leaving late at night, this would not be as many as a pub.

“Add to this the fact that they will have been drinking and the potential for anti-social behaviour is significantly greater than previously experienced.”

However, Mr Musgrove reassured her that the micropub is unlikely to attract “undesirables” because of the higher prices of its real ale offering, will not be playing amplified music, and will employ experienced bar staff.

It is hoped that the micropub will be open in early 2019.

Granting an alcohol licence for the site, committee chair Coun Kevin The vacant bookmakers in Ryton which will be turned into a micropub

Dodds said: “You seem to have a very responsible attitude towards the business you are trying to set up and are trying to be a part of the community. I hope that you continue in that vein.

“People are concerned that the quality of life they enjoy has the potential to be detrimentally affected. I know that is not your intention, but there could be unintended consequences.

“I would like to think that those residents who have objected will

become your clients.”

The venue will be able to sell alcohol from noon to 9.30pm Sunday to Thursday and until 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

The applicant also agreed to install four CCTV cameras and have no off-sales of alcohol for its first three months of operation.

Next week, the council’s planning committee is expected to also grant planning permission for the redevelopment of the vacant former betting shop.