Brighton licensing magistrates claim they are not short-sighted. Anyone who has had dealings with them will also find decisions totally inconsistent, even when working within the framework of the ridiculously outdated licensing laws.

Under guidelines to assess each case on its own merit, the situation in Brighton and Hove is still ludicrously hit and miss, particularly with regard to conditions relating to cafe-bars. There appears to be no consideration given to a rapidly-changing industry in which popular, well-managed premises that do not and will not contribute to problems of noise and disturbance have conditions imposed on them that amount to restrictive trade practices.

This situation occurs even when the police, who surely are the best authority to address issues of noise or disturbance, do not object.

Meanwhile, the licensed trade is in a state of flux. Approximately ten per cent (6,000) of traditional pubs are being sold or changing hands. It is not surprising that one of the main objectors to licensing proposals, (apart from extended hours), is the Licensed Victuallers Association, which often forms the core of residents' associations' objections.

Brighton magistrates seem blind both to the issues of trade protection and to the benefits a civilised cafe culture can bring to a new and vibrant city that has become the major entertainment area for the South.

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