Licensing Act Sub Committee - 28 January 2026

The meeting opened with the election of a Chairman. Councillor Martin moved, and Councillor Cunningham seconded, that Councillor Dennis be appointed Chairman for the session; the motion was carried without any declarations of interest. The Chairman introduced the attendees, outlined the procedural framework for the discussion, and invited contributions from the Licensing Officer, the Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service (CFRS) representative, and the licence holder (the respondent).

The Licensing Officer presented the sub‑committee’s report on an application to review the premises licence for Rum Store Carnglaze Caverns, St Neot, Liskeard (PL14 6HQ). The report outlined the request for a licence amendment and highlighted a prior email from CFRS proposing a safety condition that the licence holder deemed infeasible. The senior lawyer sought clarification on the feasibility of the proposed condition, which was confirmed to be impractical for the venue.

The CFRS representative testified in support of stricter safety requirements, citing several concerns: the risk to public safety posed by the venue’s activities, the excessive evacuation distance from the stage and seating area, the lack of a fire‑warning and detection system, and insufficient fire exits for a capacity of 450 occupants. In response to members’ questions, the CFRS emphasized the need for a separate secondary exit, referenced the general principles of fire safety that underlie guidance, and noted that an improved fire‑warning system alone would not resolve the safety deficiencies. Ongoing discussions with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) were mentioned to clarify jurisdictional responsibilities.

The respondent, representing the licence holder, defended the continued operation of the premises. They highlighted a 23‑year operating record without incidents, annual HSE inspections, and an upcoming HSE visit to conduct smoke and fire simulations. Additional safety measures cited included NVP readings of the cave, 3D scans, and the use of non‑flammable construction materials such as slate ceilings and isolated electrical cables. The respondent asserted that staff were trained on evacuation routes and that the venue could not safely host concerts for 450 people, suggesting a lower capacity limit.

The meeting concluded without a final resolution on the licence review. The sub‑committee noted that further clarification from the HSE and continued dialogue with CFRS would be required before a definitive decision could be made. The full minutes for item LASC/3 contain the respondent’s final submission and any subsequent actions.