Future of Chesterfield's Moo Bar hangs in the balance

The Derbyshire Times has learned that Chesterfield Borough Council's licensing committee suspended the bar's licence on police advice following several 'violent incidents' associated with the popular nightspot.

Councillor Andy Bellamy, the borough council's chair of licensing committee, said: "Our licensing committee took the decision to suspend the licence of Moo Bar on Corporation Street on Wednesday, July 27.

"This followed a recommendation from Derbyshire Constabulary to suspend the licence because the bar is associated with serious crime and serious disorder."

He added the suspension came after an alleged assault on Chesterfield man Chris Henchliffe, 26, who later died in hospital after suffering serious head injuries outside the Pomegranate Theatre.

Coun Bellamy said: "Since the beginning of 2016, there have been 17 incidents associated with Moo Bar and two assaults inside the bar where the victims have sustained a broken jaw.

"A full review hearing will take place on Wednesday, August 17, which will determine whether the licence for Moo Bar will be revoked."

Moo Bar has three rooms with a capacity of 350 people.

Signs have been put up at the bar saying it is currently 'closed for refurbishment'.

Commenting on the Derbyshire Times' Facebook page, Amy Hodgkiss said: "I loved Moo."

Katie Louise Maddison said: "It needs shutting down."

Joe Rosato said: "Chesterfield's nightlife has dwindled over the years. It's sad that people can’t just go out and have a great night without being violent towards each other."

Also commenting on our Facebook page, Michael Petrillo – who is understood to be related to Moo Bar's owner Antonio Petrillo – said what happens on the streets is 'down to lack of policing' and 'not Moo's fault'. He added: "Another witch hunt."