Birmingham bar closes after stabbing
0 Bar on Broad Street has had its licence suspended after two security staff were stabbed.
Last updated 12th May 2023
A popular Broad Street bar has had its licence suspended after two security staff were stabbed following a disorder inside the venue.
The incident took place at O Bar, on the corner of Broad Street and Gas Street, earlier this month. A 31-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.
Whilst waiting for an ambulance to arrive, police officers gave first aid to the victims. CCTV is also being examined for the incident which happened on the bank holiday weekend (Sunday, 7 May).
Superintendent Alison Hurst wrote to Birmingham City Council requesting an expedited review of the bar’s licence. She said West Midlands Police had concerns over the control measures O Bar had in place at the time of the incident.
She added there were also concerns from attending officers about how the scene was managed by the venue management and staff.
In a statement, West Midlands Police said: “A 31-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. He has been bailed with conditions while enquiries continue.”
The city council met yesterday (11 May) to discuss what immediate steps should be taken regarding O Bar’s licence to operate. A decision was published shortly afterwards.
Chair of the licensing sub-committee, Cllr Philip Davis, said: “This sub-committee determines that 1. The licence be suspended pending the implementation of the agreed conditions to the satisfaction of West Midlands Police, 2. That all the conditions agreed between the premises and West Midlands Police in advance of the meeting shall be adopted.”
Some of the conditions include the introduction of metal detectors and ID scanners, staff training in crime scene management, body cameras for door staff, an on-site bleed kit, and a first-aid trained staff member on duty at all times.
Cllr Davis continued: “Upon the implementation of the agreed conditions to the satisfaction of West Midlands Police, the suspension shall be lifted and the premises permitted to trade pending the summary of a review hearing in 28 days’ time.”