A sports bar in East Birmingham has been forced to close its doors after a violent incident inside the venue led to a man being charged with grievous bodily harm.
Violent Assault Leads to Licence Suspension
The Garretts Green Sports Bar, located at the junction of Granby Avenue and Valepits Road, is at the centre of a police investigation following a serious assault on Tuesday, November 4. The attack occurred shortly before 8pm while the venue was open to the public.
A 33-year-old man sustained significant injuries to his face and head during the altercation. The West Midlands Ambulance Service confirmed it was called to reports of an unconscious patient at 7.56pm but was stood down before arrival as it was no longer required.
Police Action and Court Appearances
Following the incident, Benjamin Duprey, 34, of Holbeach Road in Lea Hall, was arrested on November 10. He was subsequently charged with GBH (grievous bodily harm).
Duprey made his first appearance at Birmingham Magistrates' Court on November 12, where he was remanded in custody. His case has been escalated, and he is next scheduled to appear at Birmingham Crown Court on Wednesday, December 10.
Immediate Consequences for the Venue
A West Midlands Police superintendent called for an expedited review of the premises licence, citing serious concerns for the promotion of licensing objectives. This review was heard by Birmingham City Council's licensing sub-committee B on Tuesday, November 11.
The committee's ruling was swift and decisive. The sub-committee, chaired by Councillor Carmel Corrigan, determined that the licence for Garretts Green Sports Bar would be suspended pending a full review to be completed within 28 days. Furthermore, the designated premises supervisor, Amy O'Brien, was removed from her position with immediate effect. A significant portion of the hearing was held in private at the request of the police due to the ongoing nature of the investigation.
