Licensing Act Sub Committee - 4 July 2025

**Election of Chairman and Meeting Procedure**

The meeting opened with a motion from Councillor Clegg, seconded by Councillor Cunningham, to elect Councillor Chopak as Chairman for the session. The motion was carried without any declarations of interest. A subsequent motion, moved by Councillor Chopak and seconded by Councillor Cunningham, resolved that the press and public be excluded from the consideration of specific business that involved exempt information about an individual, in accordance with the Local Government Act 1972 (as amended).

**Review of the Premises Licence for Café Soul**

The Sub‑Committee examined a report from the Licensing Officer concerning a review of the premises licence for Café Soul, 51 Cross Street, Camborne (TR14 8ET). Evidence and submissions were heard from Devon & Cornwall Police, Cornwall Council Licensing Enforcement, the Anti‑social Behaviour Officer, an additional stakeholder, and the licence holder’s representative. The licence holder was allowed to speak in support of retaining the licence and answered questions from the Committee.

**Findings and Decision to Revoke the Licence**

After considering the report, statutory guidance, Council policy, and the Licensing Act 2003, the Committee moved—again by Councillor Chopak and seconded by Councillor Cunningham—to revoke the premises licence. The decision was based on concerns that the premises undermined the Licensing Objectives of preventing crime and disorder, preventing public nuisance, and protecting children from harm. The Committee noted that on 9 June 2025 the Cornwall Magistrates Court had granted a Closure Order under section 80 of the Anti‑Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, following a police application that identified anti‑social behaviour and persistent disorder at the venue.

**Implications of the Closure Order**

The Closure Order requires Café Soul to remain closed to all persons for three months, starting 3 June 2025. The Committee highlighted the substantial police evidence indicating that the premises were not being operated in a professional or responsible manner. Members expressed strong concern about the identified issues and affirmed that revoking the licence was a proportionate response to protect public safety and order.

**Outcome**

The meeting concluded with the licence for Café Soul formally revoked and the Closure Order enforced for the stipulated three‑month period. No further motions on this item were raised, and the Sub‑Committee’s decision was recorded as the final outcome for the premises licence review.