Southend police have vowed to crack down on late-night drinking in clubs and pubs in the wake of the two men being stabbed in a vicious knife fight.
Police successfully opposed an application by Dreams nightclub on Southend seafront yesterday to open until 12.30am on Sundays and the neighbouring Smithy's to open until 1am on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
The refusal came just a day after the stabbing on Eastern Esplanade.
Even before the incident, police expressed fears the plans to have late-night live music and karaoke could lead to more town centre violence.
Police told Southend Council's licensing committee there had been a number of fights at the club.
They also believe the force is stretched to breaking point and the town cannot cope with any more late-night venues for the time being.
Chief Supt Mick Thwaites said: "We are currently looking at every single application to have a late licence."
One of the joint licence holder of Dreams nightclub, Allan Darnton, said: "I am disappointed. We have measures in place to deal with any trouble around our premises.
"As for the stabbing at the weekend, it was nothing to do with us."
Published Tuesday January 20, 2004
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article