Whalley could get extra CCTV equipment to tackle problems such as anti-social behaviour, drugs and crime, reportedly linked to its busy pub, bar and club scene.
The popular Ribble Valley village draws visitors from a wide area but has also been the focus of debate and action about reported problems at nights and weekends.
In recent years, some residents have said their lives were blighted by noise, litter, damage and bad behaviour by drunken revellers.
In response, much of Whalley is subject to a special licensing arrangement by Ribble Valley Council.
This is designed to place a greater responsibility on businesses and new applicants wanting licences, to control their customers’ behaviour and issues such as loud music from DJs, karaoke or bands.
Furthermore, council officers have been enforcing licensing conditions during recent inspections of businesses in Whalley, Longridge and Clitheroe, according to a new report for the borough’s licensing committee.
Regarding extra CCTV in Whalley, the report states: “As a result of continuing issues raised in respect to the night time economy, the current provision of CCTV cameras has been considered.
"The council has raised this issue with the police, who have confirmed that they would support the further exploration of the possibility of installing an additional camera in the area of Accrington Road and Queen Street.
“The council will now progress this matter with Lancashire County Council, as the highway authority, electricity providers and internally to ensure that all necessary requirements are met.
"The licensing committee will be kept updated on progress.”
Meanwhile, formal licensing inspections by Ribble Valley Council officers have been carried out in February, March, April and May this year in Clitheroe, Whalley and Longridge, the update states.
Then in June and July, visits were carried out to all premises across the borough which have a new designated premises supervisor.
These roles are typically required for pubs, clubs and off-licences.
The update adds: “The licensing enforcement officer has also been involved in meetings between the police, residents and licence holders in respect to premises with ongoing issues.
"Inspections in Clitheroe, Whalley and Longridge included discussions with designated supervisors and staff, and licence conditions were checked.
“In particular, officers looked at age verification policy and the Challenge 25 system, misuse of drugs policy, refusals and incident registers and procedures, and security industry accreditation for door staff.”
A licensing enforcement officer has also attended Pubwatch meetings in Clitheroe and Whalley, and a Longridge Pubwatch Scheme is now progressing with advice given to Longridge Town Council, the report adds.
Furthermore, licensing officers have visited premises in Clitheroe with outdoor seating and tables, to advise them they need a pavement licence.
The licensing committee meets in Clitheroe on Tuesday, September 2.
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