The licensing committee in Middlesbrough has temporarily suspended the premises licence for Lounge Afrique after police presented evidence they say shows the venue breached conditions and put patrons at risk.
Police review cites multiple incidents and under‑age entry concerns
Cleveland Police told councillors that prompted by a rape allegation they examined CCTV footage and other material which revealed several "concerning actions occurring at the premise". The force said the material suggested people who appeared to be under 18 were being admitted, and that there had been a catalogue of problems linked to the venue in recent years.
"If some of the checks that were supposed to be done had been completed, the alleged rape possibly wouldn't have happened,"
The committee was told there had been 10 incidents reported in the last two years, including physical and sexual assaults and incidents of drinks being spiked. A police spokeswoman confirmed a 28‑year‑old man has been arrested on suspicion of rape and remains on police bail while inquiries continue.
Licence holder responds, club appoints new staff and equipment
The club's representative, identified to the committee as Quarcoo, said he was "extremely disappointed" with the actions of the designated premises supervisor and is now consulting a replacement he described as "very experienced". He told councillors that steps already taken since the matter emerged included:
- appointing a new security team
- introducing electronic ID scanners
- other management changes aimed at complying with licence conditions
However, Cleveland Police’s licensing officer, Amy Roberts, told the committee that if the required checks had been carried out properly, the alleged assault might not have occurred. The committee concluded that the venue’s failures to adhere to conditions made the suspension a proportionate measure to prevent further serious crime.
What happens next
The suspension is an interim measure ahead of a full licensing review hearing scheduled for 17 August. That hearing will determine whether the licence should be reinstated with conditions, further restricted, or revoked altogether.
| Detail | Information given to committee |
|---|---|
| Licence held since | 2014 |
| Reported incidents (last two years) | 10 |
| Arrest | 28‑year‑old man arrested on suspicion of rape, on police bail |
| Review hearing | 17 August |
The case raises questions for local regulators and the licensed‑trade about safeguarding and vigilance. For residents and potential patrons, the licensing committee’s action underlines the council’s duty to act where evidence suggests public safety could be compromised.
Members of the public with information relevant to the police inquiry are asked to contact Cleveland Police through the usual channels. The council will publish details of the full review hearing and any submissions ahead of the 17 August meeting.
This office will monitor the licensing review and any developments in the police investigation and report further statements from Cleveland Police, Middlesbrough Council or Lounge Afrique as they are made available.
