Solihull Golf Club Awaits Decision on Late-Night Alcohol License Application
Olton Golf Club in Solihull is currently in a waiting period after a special meeting of the Solihull Council licensing act panel reviewed its bid for a new premises license to serve alcohol to the public. The club, located on Mirfield Road, argues that the license would only be used for hosting private parties, not as a regular public venue.
Current License and Proposed Changes
The golf club has held a Club Premises Certificate since 2005, which restricts licensable activities to club members and their bona fide guests. The new application seeks to extend serving hours until 1am, with the venue closing at 2am nightly. David Holmes, the general manager, emphasized that the club is not aiming to become a public bar but rather to host specific events during quieter winter months.
"The hospitality industry is finding things tough at the moment," Holmes told the panel. "We are looking at any ways we can to help through the quieter winter months when the club is not so busy hosting things like wakes, birthday parties." He clarified that the club does not plan to hold 18th or 21st birthday parties, as members would be unhappy with events that could cause damage or mess.
Neighbor Objections and Noise Concerns
Neighbor Ripon Miah objected to the proposed license, citing concerns about inevitable disturbances such as patrons arriving and leaving late at night, loud conversations outside, car doors slamming, and engines running. Miah wrote, "Residents already experience disturbance associated with the golf club. This application should be refused outright."
During the meeting, panel member Councillor Kate Jones inquired about noise containment, asking if doors and windows would be closed by 9pm when music is played and whether the club has air conditioning. Holmes responded that air conditioning is available in some rooms and that music volume is typically low, with windows facing away from residents toward the golf course.
Capacity and Parking Details
Holmes explained that while the venue has a capacity of 200, attendance is unlikely to exceed 100. When asked by committee chairman Councillor Sardul Marwa about adequate parking for such numbers, Holmes confirmed that sufficient parking is available.
The panel concluded the meeting by announcing that the decision would be made in private, with the result to be released later to interested parties. The outcome will determine whether Olton Golf Club can proceed with its plans to expand event hosting capabilities under the new license.
