A BUSINESSMAN is one step closer to saving his jazz bar, after being granted a licence.

Pat Duggan opened the 50-60 capacity venue in January but was ordered to close it after Bury Council informed him that he needed permission to operate the bar and put on live entertainment.

He applied for permission at a meeting of Bury licensing panel at the town hall last Thursday (May 28) when a number of objectors attended from the cul-de-sac, Grants Lane, situated behind the unit in the Kay Brow complex.

Lorenza Remic, of Grants Lane, speaking after the meeting, said she was concerned about the jazz and rock venue affecting the value of her home of 40 years.

“I am, like the rest of my neighbours, concerned about the effect this could have and worried about a lack of parking and anti-social behaviour becoming an issue with people drinking at the venue,” said Ms Remic.

“I don’t want this to de-value my house. If I was to sell it, would I have to mention there is a night club so close by?"

She added: “After hearing what Mr Duggan has said today I’m not as worried, but it’s a ‘wait and see' game.”

A retrospective planning application has now been submitted for a change of use of the industrial unit to a live music venue.

“After seeing the stage finished, people told me it would make a great venue for gigs and functions and I thought it was the perfect addition to my shop,” said Mr Duggan after the meeting.

If planning permission is granted, jazz nights would be held on a Tuesday and Friday evening although, and alcohol must not be served at 10.30pm, with the venue cleared at 11pm under the terms of the licence.

Views on the planning application can be made to Bury Council before June 12.