Posted by Matthew Farrell
By Matthew Farrell, Lizard News
A tavern planned for Ōmokoroa will instead have to operate as a restaurant serving substantial meals and for no more than 30 patrons.
In a reserved decision released this afternoon, the District Licensing Committee has ruled the applicant will only be able to entertain casual drinkers “from time to time”.
The Committee says it is unable to accept that a tavern-style business with live bands, even until 11 pm, would not adversely affect residential neighbours.
The DLC also says it cannot accept that the amenity and good order of the locality would not be adversely affected by more than a minor extent.
The decision means the site’s principal activity must be diners seated to consume substantial meals freshly prepared by chefs in the kitchen.
The trading hours can be 10 am to 11 pm, seven days, but the outdoor garden must be closed by 10 pm. The applicant must also provide a courtesy shuttle from 7 pm, from Wednesday to Saturday.
Live bands must be acoustic only, with no drum kit, playing at background volume level from 10 pm, when all windows and doors must be closed.
The decision is subject to appeals.