Council accused of ‘misleading’ the public over licensing consultation

Dinerama, the launch venue of the We Love Hackney campaign

Campaigners have accused the council of “misleading” local residents and businesses over the reasons for abandoning a controversial licensing consultation.

Licensing committee chair Emma Plouviez announced the council’s consultation was being “delayed” due to a “minor error” which was “not related to the part of the consultation affecting nightclub opening hours”.

But a total of eight incorrect closing times were highlighted in a document provided by the council to the Hackney Citizen, one of which brings forward the closing times of nightclubs from 12pm to 11pm in some parts of the borough.

Jonathan Downey, a partner in Dinerama and Hackney resident said the council’s statement was “misleading” and called for a “change of approach and a change of personnel”.

He said: “They are trying to fudge the issue and trying to get something through under the radar which is not what they should be doing in their position.

“They should be open and transparent. There is a pattern of inappropriate behaviour from elected officials doing important work for local residents and local businesses.”

“Licensing officers need to consider their position, because from where I’m standing, they are not considered appropriate.”

Campaigners also claim a licensing officer said the changes were only in relation to “takeaway opening hours”.

Hackney Council did not respond to a request for comment.