ARCHES: HARVIE DISAPPOINTED AS LICENSING AMENDMENTS FALL
Patrick Harvie, Scottish Green MSP for Glasgow, is expressing disappointment that MSPs have voted down amendments to the Air Weapons and Licensing Bill which attempted to address issues arising from the hugely unpopular closure of The Arches music and arts venue in the city.
Mr Harvie's amendments would have added "promoting social and cultural life" to Licensing Objectives and consideration of the impact of decisions on a Licensing Board’s whole area when reviewing a venue's license.
Patrick Harvie MSP said:
"It's unrealistic to imagine that recreational drug use will be reduced by closing one venue, especially one with a record of staff training, medical facilities and a willingness to report problems rather than hiding them. The loss of The Arches leaves a huge gap in the social and cultural scene of Scotland's biggest city, and it's disappointing MSPs have chosen not to take the opportunity to reconsider licensing objectives."