Licensing Update

3.51.10am UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 31st Jan 2006

By now, most of the pubs and off-licences in Hampstead have had their applications heard by Licensing Panels.

LIb Dem Cllr Keith Moffitt chaired and served on many panels and has been widely praised for his balance and sensible approach.

The results have been a mixed bag of decisions, with few pubs succeeding in getting the extra hours they sought - except occasionally on Friday or Saturdays, or for music. The Hollybush (right) wins a prize for being good neighbours - it didn't ask for an increase!

Some of the more controversial application included The Flask (above) which got an extra hour for alcohol at the weekend and Bedlam Bar (right) in Heath Street, which was fought tooth and nail by local residents.

The Three Horseshoes (below right) which was sold on by the owners and so the application was withdrawn.

The Roebuck, in South End Green, appealed, but now has to close its garden at 10.30.

The Magdala got an extra hour at weekends as well.

Now things have quietened down the issue is whether things begin to move to a more civilised and continental style of drinking - cynics say not - let's hope and see.