Whitley Bay STACK alcohol licence up for council decision

Elected officials and council officers will gather next week to consider an alcohol licence for a new STACK in the Dome’s former Empress Rooms. The plans include a new terrace roof, a stage for live entertainment, and space for food and drink stalls.

The potential arrival of the STACK has divided opinions among residents and local businesses with some saying such a development is not appropriate for the Whitley Bay landmark.

One resident wrote to North Tyneside Council and said: “This could quite easily become a honeypot for antisocial behaviour”.

Read more: Plans revealed for popular nightlife venue STACK in new North East location

However, the developer, Danieli Group, in written submissions to North Tyneside Council put forward its plans to mitigate anti-social behaviour including training staff to identify and deal with problem patrons. Customers will also not be allowed to take alcohol away in open containers unless there is a prior agreement with Northumbria Police.

The proposed second-floor terrace will also be closed to the public from 10 pm.

STACK has seen support from several businesses and a Whitley Bay councillor has written to the council’s licencing committee supporting the licensing application.

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Councillor John O’Shea wrote: “I wish to offer my support for the above application. The redevelopment of the former Empress Rooms will bring a significant attraction to the Whitley Bay seafront. Without an alcohol licence, similar to those held by outlets in the Spanish City, it will inhibit the types of activities in the redeveloped Empress Rooms”.

The meeting to decide the alcohol licence will be held at 10am, Monday, August 2, at North Tyneside Council’s Cobalt HQ.

The Empress Ballroom was built in 1910 and would often host up to 750 dancers. The building later went on to become the Carlton Club bingo hall before falling into disrepair.