London,
02
March
2009
|
23:00
Europe/London

Are you the Best Bar None?

If you think your Haggerston or Shoreditch bar or restaurant helps to make Hackney a pleasant and enjoyable place to socialise, why not apply for Best Bar None status?

Best Bar None is jointly run by Hackney Council, the Metropolitan Police and the London Fire Brigade. It is open to licensees of bars, clubs, off licences and some restaurants who can apply to be assessed on their efforts to create a vibrant, safe and pleasant environment for patrons and respect the needs of local residents.

The scheme is based on the licensing objectives:

• the prevention of crime and disorder
• public safety
• the prevention of public nuisance
• protection of children from harm

The scheme will be officially launched with a Best Bar None seminar at Hackney Town Hall, 3pm, Monday 9 March.

Cllr Alan Laing, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, wants the scheme to eventually become a sign of excellence for the borough’s nightspots and urged licensees in Haggerston and Shoreditch to apply: “Getting involved with Best Bar None is good for licensees, as it enhances their reputations, it s good for the visitors who enjoy going out in a safe environment, it s good for local residents who value responsible socialising and so it s ultimately good for business.”

Chief Superintendent Steve Dann, Borough Commander Hackney, added:
“Hackney Police is committed to working with responsible licensees who take the safety of their clientele seriously. A well-managed licensed venue can benefit the local community which is why Hackney Police is promoting the Best Bar None scheme and working with all our partners to make Hackney even safer.”

The last Gold award winner was Elbow Room in Curtain Road. There are also Silver and Bronze awards and accreditation for other premises.

All premises which achieve accreditation will receive a plaque and/or certificate to display to the public. This will show patrons that the management is committed to running a high quality business. Taking part will also give licensees the opportunity to take a licensing risk assessment, which can be used to support future licensing applications.

Applications must be submitted by 6 April 2009. For more information contact: David Tuitt, Licensing Service, Hackney Council, tel: 020 8356 4942, email: david.tuitt@hackney.gov.uk