Issue - meetings

To note the variation of the provision of a track betting licence for the Ladbrokes World Darts Championships at Alexandra Palace.

Councillor Scott declared a prejudicial interest in this item as he was a member of Haringey’s Licensing Committee; he left the room during consideration of this item.

The Committee received the report updating on the intention of Alexandra Palace Trading Limited (APTL) to move the existing track betting licence from the Panorama Room to the Great Hall for the World Darts Championships between 16^th December 2010 and 3^rd January 2011.

In response to Committee members’ comments officers explained that there were measures in place to deal with any maintenance issues in the Great Hall ceiling; the West Hall would still be used for the actual matches ;  beer supplies usually stored in the Panorama Room would be kept in the Great Hall vicinity under the new proposal which keeps the area outside the Phoenix bar clear.

Two Committee Members highlighted the controversial nature of the charity obtaining the original betting licence as well as concerns that part of the Palace would be closed to visitors over the Christmas period. Officers confirmed that similar restrictions to accessing the betting area would remain in force as in previous years.

Colin Marr (Alexandra Palace and Park Conservation Area Advisory Committee) commented that although having the World Darts Championship at the Palace was good news and recognised the need to publicise the event itself, but suggested that Ladbrokes be asked to tone down their own banners and corporate advertising that in the past had been too prominent around the Palace over the Christmas period.

RESOLVED that the report be noted and the comments of the Consultative Committee (above) be noted by the Alexandra Palace and Park Board.

Clerk’s note: Councillor Scott returned to the meeting.