AJ’s licence appeal dismissed
Published Friday, 25th September 2026
An appeal by AJ’s in Barnoldswick against Pendle Borough Council’s decision to suspend its premises licence has been dismissed by Burnley Magistrates’ Court.
The appeal was heard on Monday 21 and Tuesday 22 September where the Court awarded the Council costs of £2,675.
AJ’s premises licence was reviewed following a number of complaints about noise and anti-social behaviour dating back to June 2024.
At a hearing in April, Pendle Borough Council’s Licensing Committee decided that the premises licence should be suspended for eight weeks.
The Committee also agreed that the permitted licensing hours should be amended to 11.30pm and the venue should close by midnight.
Neil Watson, Pendle Borough Council's Assistant Director, Planning, Building Control and Regulatory Services, said: “We welcome the Court’s decision to dismiss the appeal and to award the Council its costs.
“The licensing process is there to ensure premises operate responsibly and that the licensing objectives, including the prevention of public nuisance and anti-social behaviour, are upheld.”
Councillor Mohammad Hanif, the Council's Portfolio Holder for Licensing, added: “Noise and anti-social behaviour can have a significant impact on residents and the wider community.
“We will continue to take appropriate action where there is evidence that licensing objectives are not being met.
“We hope this decision provides reassurance to residents that their concerns are taken seriously and that we will use the powers available to us to protect the local community.”