BrewDog, the Scottish indie beer people, has been granted a licence for their new Colquitt Street bar. Hurrah! The craft beer experts had considered premises along Slater Street (for a while Mello Mello was rumoured to be in their sights), but now they’ll tuck in alongside Aloha and co at the top of town - in Colquitt Street - and will, we’re sure, be a welcome addition to the city’s night time economy. The council, concerned about the area’s Cumulative Impacts Policy, raised an eyebrow, as did Merseyside Police.
In recommending its refusal, Merseyside Police said: “We consider that the nature of the proposed operation will add to the cumulative impact in that area and should be refused.”
Council Trading Standards officials waded in, too, saying the well-respected indie chain would “add to the cumulative impact” in the area, and against the council’s policy to curb what it saw as excessive, unregulated growth of the Ropewalk’s drinking offer. But, this morning, BrewDog’s licence was granted: ‘it’s something new for the area,’ said Christine Banks, chair of the licensing committee. It’s a victory for decent brews, and clear-headed night-time economy thinking. Well done all.
We spoke to BrewDog’s Sarah Warman.
What are you hoping to bring to the city?
The bar will mirror our other bars across the UK; it’ll be a haven for craft beer lovers and newcomers alike. A place to explore and enjoy great beers from around the world.
What’s the status on your super strong beers and potential of offering them?
We still brew some of our higher ABV beers, but these are very occassional brews and are intended to be sipped and savoured. They are served in nips.
Do you think the police waded in a little too prematurely with their fears of rampant alcohol abuse?!
We’re just happy our licence has been granted, that’s all I can say!
When were you hoping to open?
Soon. Watch this space!
Tactical Nuclear Penguins all round!
