'Underage' pub ordered to close

O'Sheas Tavern on Bangor's High Street will stay shut for six weeks

A county council says it has used its powers for the first time to close a pub which was caught serving underage drinkers.

O'Sheas Tavern in Bangor, Gwynedd, will stay shut for six weeks after the council suspended the pub's licence.

It followed test purchases in its bar by under-18s.

Gwynedd Council said concerns had also been raised about anti-social behaviour linked to the premises and drug use in the pub.

"This was not a decision taken lightly, and was a matter which we considered for some time," said Councillor John R Jones, who is responsible for public protection on Gwynedd council.

"But due to the representations made by North Wales Police representatives and advice from council officers, we felt we had no option but to take this step to suspend the license."

Drugs

Officials said additional concerns about the pub included high levels of cocaine recorded in the venue, and the property's CCTV system was not functioning.

The pub will face tough new conditions before it is allowed to re-open, including enforcing a strict procedure for challenging any drinkers who appear to be under-21.

The council said the pub must also facilitate police visits, and ensure officers are called to every violent incident, inside or outside the premises.

"Ensuring that public houses and clubs throughout Gwynedd abide by agreed protocols is a priority for both Gwynedd council and North Wales Police, and we hope that this decision by the central licensing sub-committee will act as a warning for all premises throughout the county," added Mr Jones.