Published: 26 November, 2012
By RICHARD OSLEY

SUPPORTERS of one of Camden's best loved pubs have been stunned by a police request to suspend its licence for three months.

Councillors have warned there will be a "public outcry" if the Sir Richard Steele bar in Haverstock Hill, Belsize Park, is stopped from operating for a short spell.

Its management Belsize Park have been called to appear at the Town Hall tomorrow (Tuesday) morning for a licence review hearing.

Police allege that the pub has become a "safe haven" for drug dealers and that a three-month suspension of the premises' licence and a change of bar manager would provide time to rectify problems and train staff.

In paperwork submitted to Camden's licensing department, police said the measure would be "a proportionate and necessary step to deal with the issues faced by the pub".

The Sir Richard Steele – or 'the Steeles' as it is affectionately known – is considered a landmark bar by pub-goers. It was a watering hole frequented by the likes of Chris Evans, and Noel and Liam Gallagher from Oasis, during the height of Britpop.

And its regular are appalled by the idea of the pub closing its doors for three months, a time period which could include Christmas and New Year. The measures have been described as "draconian".

Conservative councillor Jonny Bucknell said: "The danger with the proposals in the review is that they may prove so draconian that the pub is no longer viable. While a drugs hotspot was a concern to the residents, the loss of the pub would attract a public outcry. A more softly softly approach should be considered."

Others who have written to the council in support of the bar described it as the "jewel in the crown" in the area and one of the last traditional pubs.

Supporter John Walsh said in his letter defending the bar: "Lately, the pub has changed. The clientele has become older and the atmosphere less frantic. Any unsocial activities that there might have been have certainly now ceased. The decor and the unspoilt interior of the pub are unique and should not be put at risk even by a temporary closure."

Another, Steve White, who lives nearby, added: "A local pub provides an important social role in the community and has done for hundreds of years. 'Steeles Village' without Sir Richard Steeles could be renamed as 'Takeaway Village' or 'William Hill Village', as all that would be left would be a Chinese, Japanese and Turkish restaurant and of course the betting shop."

Councillors are scheduled to meet to review the licence tomorrow morning at 10am.