One can feel a little sympathy for Skender Drizi, the owner of Milano bar who has had his bid for longer opening hours similar to competitors in Cowley Road turned down under the city council’s saturation policy.
On an individual basis it isn’t fair one bar can stay open until 1am yet a neighbouring venue must shut at 11pm.
However, this issue is not just about Mr Drizi’s bar. It is about Cowley Road and the community as a whole.
District Judge Tim Pattinson is right to endorse the council’s saturation policy.
No one can argue Cowley Road is anything like a quiet residential area. It is vibrant with a healthy, and at times, raucous nighttime economy.
Yet at some point Oxford City Council has to draw a line in the sand. Yes, we want Cowley Road to retain its vibrancy but it is not a free-for-all.
Both the city council and Judge Pattinson take the sensible view that there are problems created by alcohol and antisocial behaviour.
It is unfortunate for Mr Drizi that his application is the victim of timing, but ultimately the interests of all the community – residents, revellers, daytime businesses and nighttime bars – must be weighed and a balance struck.
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