Tough rules imposed as nightclub reopens

Magistrates have ruled the Gatecrasher nightclub on New Briggate in Leeds must appoint a new licence holder and management team before it can reopen its doors, after being closed down by Leeds City Council in February.

The club was the scene of several high-profile violent incidents over the festive period, culminating with the stabbing of a 17-year-old boy on January 15.

West Yorkshire Police and Leeds City Council demanded strict and wide-ranging conditions be imposed before it be allowed to reopen.

At a three-day hearing at Leeds Magistrates’ Court this week, it was agreed security staff will have to use safety arches and hand-held metal detectors in the future at the “reasonable request” of police, and that the club must ensure no one under 18 attends events where alcohol is served.

The club will have to give 28 days’ notice of any new or externally-promoted events, and the club’s new management must meet with licensing officers every month to discuss potential issues.

Other conditions include the use of polycarbonate glasses, doorstaff supervision of VIP areas where glasses are being used, increased doorstaff during under-18s nights, and no drinks being allowed in the club’s outdoor smoking area.

Chief Inspector Vernon Francis of West Yorkshire Police said: “Nightclubs play a major part in our city centre economy, and the last thing we want to do is put that at risk. But the first priority has got to be ensuring public safety.

“It was important the police and council took action, and we hope these recommendations will ensure that people who choose to attend the club in the future can enjoy their evenings safely.”