The future of Yeovil Labour Club, also known as Unity Hall, hangs in the balance as the town’s magistrates’ court prepares to hear its appeal following the cancellation of a crucial licensing hearing. Situated on Central Road in the heart of Yeovil, just a short walk from the Quedam Shopping Centre and the William Dampier public house, the club has faced mounting challenges over recent years.
Since 2022, Yeovil Labour Club has been collaborating with Avon and Somerset Constabulary and local council licensing officers to address issues stemming from high levels of anti-social behaviour and numerous incidents on-site. In response to ongoing concerns, Somerset Council’s licensing sub-committee south convened a hearing in Shepton Mallet on March 31, where it was decided to revoke the club’s license for three months starting April 29 after a series of police call-outs.
A follow-up meeting was scheduled in Yeovil on May 29 to consider the club’s application for a new designated premises supervisor (DPS), a key step aimed at preventing the license suspension. However, this hearing was abruptly cancelled after the club announced its intention to appeal the licensing sub-committee’s decision at Yeovil Magistrates’ Court. With the appeal underway, no further licensing discussions will take place until the legal process concludes.
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Somerset Council confirmed that the DPS application had been withdrawn, clarifying, “The withdrawal of the application to specify a new DPS means the current DPS remains on the licence. Although the licensing sub-committee had voted to remove the current DPS and suspend the licence, this decision is now suspended pending the outcome of the appeal in magistrates’ court.”
Meanwhile, the club retains the right to continue hosting licensable events, including the sale of alcohol and live or recorded music performances, while the appeal is being considered.