Birmingham City Council reject premises licence application by Kanvas Birmingham

Birmingham City Council’s Licensing Sub-Committee has rejected an application by Kanvas Birmingham Limited for a premises licence at 50 Adderley Street, Digbeth, citing concerns over crime prevention and public safety.

The premises had previously operated as The Crane nightclub, whose licence was revoked following the highly publicised murder of a semi-professional footballer Cody Fisher.

In summary, West Midlands Police argued that the new applicant was not fully detached from the previous licence holder, Digital Arts Media Limited, which had filed an appeal against its licence revocation.

The police pointed to connections between key individuals involved in both operations, including the proposed designated premises supervisor and security provider, who had been put forward by Digital Arts Media Limited for its appeal.

They also highlighted concerns over the involvement of a shareholder with ties to both the old and new operation.

The Sub-Committee agreed with the police that the applicant had not demonstrated a clear separation from the previous operator, presenting a risk to the licensing objectives.

It determined that, given the history of the site and the seriousness of past incidents, granting the licence would undermine crime prevention efforts and public safety. 

The applicant has the right to appeal the decision within 21 days.

Gary Grant acted for West Midlands Police, instructed by Emma Crutchley and PC Ben Reader.