An illegal nightclub has been closed down after the Council discovered a restaurant was being used as a front for late night activity.
Queens Lounge, also known as Tasty’s Restaurant, in Oldham Road, has for a number of years been the source of complaints for nearby residents, who have reported significant noise disturbance as well as anti-social behaviour taking place.
Although operating ostensibly as a takeaway, evidence gathered by Council staff, GMP and via members of the public revealed there was a basement space within the property operating as an unlicensed nightclub and bar.
Observations carried out by Licensing and Out of Hours Officers saw members of the public entering the premises through shutters which were raised and lowered to allow access. This took place throughout the night, for example, on November 6, 2022, when officers heard music coming through the door of the venue as well as observing two women, who appeared to be intoxicated, entering the premises through the shutters at approximately 3am.
Further surveillance continued and officers witnessed similar activity taking place late at night.
Residents have also reported arguing and fighting in and around the venue, bass music coming from inside the venue, usage of Nitrous Oxide as well as litter in the alleyway to the rear of the premises.
A joint visit to the premises with GMP on March 25, found a large quantity of alcohol stored in the basement of the premises, clearly intended for sale. The discovery of a receipt book confirmed this suspicion.
As a result of all the evidence of serious nuisance, disorder and criminal conduct, the Council moved to impose a Closure Order on the premises.
This was successfully granted following a hearing at Manchester Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 16 June, 2023.
The Order requires Tasty's to immediately close until September 15, 2023. All persons are banned from entering the premises, other than Rubina Jamal Malik (owner of the premises leasehold), Manzoor Malik, and members of the emergency services, Council officers, or contractors working on behalf of the Council.
Councillor Luthfur Rahman, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “Residents surrounding this premises have for too long had to tolerate an unacceptable level of disturbance and disruption. The constant nuisance and anti-social behaviour which took place causes significant harm and diminishes the overall wellbeing and amenity of the surrounding community.
“The wealth of evidence uncovered through our investigation proved beyond doubt this venue was operating as an illegal bar and club.
“This closure order will now give the Council an opportunity to work with the owner of the business, and the owner of the building, to find a long-term solution to this issue.
“I am grateful for the diligence shown by our officers and legal team in securing this closure order, and I’d reiterate to our residents that we remain committed to tackling any kind of disturbance that negatively impacts our communities.”