Corn Exchange licence approved

The District Council is eager to encourage development of the sector, increase employment opportunities, bring back into use quality assets in the town and pave the way for high quality leisure and hospitality proposals that can be enjoyed by current residents and the future student population that are expected following Towns Fund investment in Newark.

To this end the Corn Exchange operators and Newark and Sherwood District Council are pleased to announce that they have reached a negotiated position, in which to grant a licence to the premise, which is seen as sustainable to both parties.

The agreed operating hours will be in line with neighbouring districts and are partnered with a strong operating plan and certain licensing conditions. The experience of the current operator and robust management systems are seen as critical to allowing this licence to be granted.  They are also important factors when considering those who live in close proximity to the venue while opening the door for the development of a first class operation in the iconic building on Castle Gate.

Representative from the Corn Exchange, Matt Clark, said: "We are thrilled after a long time, and significant investment in planning, to now be given this support from the licensing panel. We are grateful to Newark and Sherwood District Council’s elected members and officers as a whole who continue to work with us to review our plans, and we look forward to working with them in the future to bring the property back to life."

Councillor David Lloyd, Leader of Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “I am pleased that we have reached an agreement with the Corn Exchange operator with regards to how the building can be brought back into use with the best interests of our residents, the iconic building and employment opportunities at the heart of that decision.

“With recent investment in the town we are dedicated to increasing opportunities for our residents; making the town an even better place to live, work and visit.”

Subject to a planning application, bringing the Corn Exchange back into use could help boost the night time provision for local residents.