Perhaps the name Ebbsfleet Rainbow Centre conjures images of vibrant colours. Maybe it sparks thoughts of community spirit. The Ebbsfleet Rainbow Centre has a story to tell.
This story involves community support and some licensing challenges. Let’s step back a few years to understand its role. The Ebbsfleet Rainbow Centre aimed to improve community spirit. It also wanted to develop healthy lifestyles. The centre focused on various groups. These included children and teenagers. Parents, the elderly, and the unemployed were all part of the vision.
The Ebbsfleet Rainbow Centre strived to overcome discrimination. It combatted social exclusion. They did this by offering a venue. This venue hosted training, leisure pursuits, and educational activities. The goal was greater community involvement. All services were offered at a low cost.
In late 2023, a new premises licence was sought for Dizz Hub, located within the Ebbsfleet Rainbow Centre. This included the sale of alcohol and regulated entertainment. The application specified hours for retail alcohol sales. These were 8 AM to midnight. This was for off-site sales only via the convenience store. The Community Hall sought permission for on-site alcohol sales. These were planned from 8 AM to 2 AM. Entertainment hours were requested until 2:30 AM. This included live music and indoor sporting events. Late-night refreshments were also part of the application.
Kent Police initially raised concerns. The applicant agreed to amend the operating schedule. Environmental Protection objected due to potential public nuisance. Licensing also objected to the Community Hall hours. The applicant agreed to additional conditions. However, they did not agree to reduce the Community Hall hours.
The Licensing Panel heard arguments from all parties. Councillors questioned the activities planned for the Community Hall. They were curious about the need for such late hours. The applicant explained the hall would host fitness classes. Community groups could meet there. Evening parties were also a possibility. Drinks would be served by waiters. Customers would select from a menu upon booking.
The panel was concerned about potential public drinking after pub closures. The applicant assured them it was for private hire only.
A key point of contention emerged. There seemed to be confusion. Were licensable activities actually taking place in the Community Hall? After a short break, clarification was provided. Alcohol would be sold. Payment would occur at the end of the evening via a bill.
The panel further questioned the booking process. Security measures were also discussed. The applicant explained the online booking system. A vetting process with risk assessments would occur. SIA security staff would be present. Noise rules would be implemented.
Environmental Health inquired about music entertainment. The applicant stated existing speakers would be used. Soundproofing was discussed. A planning application was underway to extend the building.
Ultimately, the panel granted the licence. The licensable hours were varied. They would now run from 8 AM to midnight. This addressed public nuisance concerns. Soundproofing was mandated before any licensable activity.
The Ebbsfleet Rainbow Centres company was dissolved August 7, 2018. It was formed June 15, 2005. The charity number for Ebbsfleet Rainbow Centres is 1111386. The activities of religious organizations were part of the nature of the business.