Glasgow Community and Safety Services – News
GLASGOW LICENSEES ENCOURAGED TO STEP UP TO THE MARK FOR ‘BEST BAR NONE’ AWARDS
Licensees of pubs, bars, night clubs and specialist entertainment venues in the City Centre and West End were invited to take part in this year’s Best Bar None Awards scheme at a launch ceremony in the City Chambers on Tuesday 21 April 2009.
The scheme, now in its fifth year in Glasgow, recognises venues which show a real commitment to reducing incidents of crime and curbing irresponsible drinks promotions which can lead to binge drinking and antisocial behaviour.
More than 250 awards have been given out to Glasgow venues since the launch of Best Bar None in 2005, and last year a total of 80 venues were presented with a bronze, silver or gold category award, as well as recognition for the city’s most improved venue.
Organisers hope to see an increase in the number of applications this year, with more of Glasgow’s drinking establishments signing up to create a safer environment for residents and visitors to the city.
Speakers at the launch event included Chief Superintendent Anne Maguire, and Convenor of the Licensing Board, Councillor Stephen Dornan.
Developed in partnership with Glasgow Community and Safety Services, Strathclyde Police, Scottish Late Night Operators Association (SLNO), Scottish Licensed Trade Association and Glasgow City Centre Alcohol Action Group – and sponsored by the world’s leading premium drinks manufacturer Diageo – Best Bar None commends venues which can demonstrate a recognised standard of excellence on criteria such as prevention of crime and disorder; public safety; prevention of public nuisance; promotion of public health; and protection of children from harm – the five key principles of the new Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005.
Best Bar None is now being promoted nationally in most Scottish cities and towns and is proving increasingly popular as a means by which licensees can demonstrate their commitment to public safety.
Phil Walker, managing director of Glasgow Community and Safety Services, said:
“We have been pleased to see so many licensees participating in the Best Bar None awards over recent years, demonstrating their commitment to crime prevention and community safety.
“Glasgow Community and Safety Services fully supports and encourages licensees to participate in this scheme, and I believe that by working together to raise standards across the industry, together we can make Glasgow an even safer place to be.”
Venues can apply to take part until 30th June, and winners will be invited to attend a prestigious awards ceremony in November.