A dispute over licensing has arisen concerning La!, an LGBT bar in Margate, Kent, following concerns raised by the local council regarding potential public urination and accidents within the adjacent car park.
La! sought permission to extend its operating hours from 11pm daily to midnight during the week and 2:30am on weekends. However, Thanet District Council’s parking team voiced objections, citing worries about patrons relieving themselves behind parked vehicles or even falling into them while intoxicated.
One councillor swiftly dismissed these concerns, drawing a comparison to similar situations observed elsewhere. “The conditions described aren’t any worse than what we routinely see outside the Wetherspoons in Ramsgate on Friday and Saturday nights,” they stated.
The establishment represents a continuation of Sundowners, a long-standing LGBT bar located on Albert Terrace which ceased operations in October 2024. Proud Pink Inns, previously responsible for Sundowners, initiated the licensing application earlier this year with the aim of expanding opening hours.
Representing owners Iain Maxstead and Gareth Braithwaite, Jerome Dillon emphasized their experience. “Mr. Maxstead has a proven track record managing establishments in London, and during the time they operated Sundowners, there were no reported incidents,” Dillon assured the council.
Braithwaite further clarified the nature of La!, stating: “This isn’t intended to be a late-night club; it’s a fundamentally different operation than what Sundowners was. We offer an upstairs lounge and relaxed bar area alongside a downstairs space for those who wish to stay open later.”
The venue aims to serve primarily LGBTQIA members of the local community.
Maxstead elaborated, “Our clientele is largely composed of locals, and they understand that entry is typically limited by 10:30pm. This encourages responsible behavior and minimizes the likelihood of overcrowding.”
A parking officer explained their apprehension, stating: “The layout presents a potential risk given people exiting the premises directly onto council land, potentially intoxicated, navigating through vehicles. We’re concerned about incidents like urination behind cars or individuals falling into them, which could result in damage.”
Councillor Debra Owen-Hughes, chair of the committee and Labour representative for Northwood Ward, deemed the suggestion of such disruptive behavior “offensive.”
“I believe Mr. Maxstead deserves support and encouragement to bring business to this town,” she asserted.
The sub-committee ultimately approved the licensing application, contingent upon securing adjustments to existing planning conditions affecting the building’s structure.
