Council backs Best Bar None accreditation scheme for licensed venues

Licensed venues, partners and local businesses gathered this week at a launch event to learn more about the nationally recognised accreditation programme.

The event provided an opportunity for venues to learn how the scheme can help strengthen Chorley’s night-time economy by recognising high standards in customer safety, venue management, and staff training, as well as the requirements for achieving accreditation. 

Cabinet Member for Planning and Development, which includes licensing, Councillor Alex Hilton, said:

“It’s fantastic to see such a positive response to the launch of Best Bar None in Chorley and we are proud to back this initiative, together with key partners.  

“It provides an excellent opportunity for venues to gain recognition for the high standards they already achieve while helping to create a safer, more welcoming borough for everyone.” 

Scheme Coordinator for Chorley Best Bar None, Matthew Rees, said:

“We are incredibly proud to be launching Best Bar None in Chorley.  

“Following the end of the previous Licensing SAVI accreditation scheme, it was important that we didn’t lose the progress already made across our town’s licensed venues.  

“Best Bar None gives us an opportunity to build on that work, raise standards further and bring venues, the police, and local authorities together around a shared commitment to creating a safer and more welcoming night-time economy. 

“The response from local venues has already been extremely encouraging. Thanks to the generous sponsorship of Amber Taverns, businesses can participate at no cost, removing barriers and allowing as many venues as possible to benefit from the scheme.  

“We hope this will become an annual celebration of Chorley’s hospitality sector and the excellent work being carried out within it.” 

Successful venues will be formally recognised and awarded a plaque, helping customers easily identify Best Bar None accredited premises.