Ulverston Restaurant to Face Licence Review Over Regulatory Failings

Download IPFS

A licensing review for a restaurant in Ulverston has been formally scheduled following a series of regulatory breaches. Westmorland and Furness Council will assess the future of Blue Elephant’s licence on 5 August, following concerns raised by multiple local authorities, including Cumbria Police and Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service.

The restaurant, previously trading as Lala’s Spice and located on Queen Street, was inspected earlier this year by officers from Westmorland and Furness Council, Cumbria Police, and Cumbria Fire and Rescue. The visit uncovered a number of compliance failures, including a faulty closed-circuit television (CCTV) system, inadequate record-keeping, and the employment of individuals without legal work status. 

Authorities also noted the absence of basic operational standards such as recorded staff training, an age verification policy, an incident or refusals log, and proof of fire alarm maintenance.

The Home Office’s immigration enforcement team confirmed that two arrests were made at the premises during the year. In addition to the regulatory breaches, Cumbria Police received a report alleging that a male staff member followed a female customer into the street in a confrontational manner.

These issues prompted Westmorland and Furness Council to publish a formal report earlier in the year recommending a licence review. The council has now confirmed that the matter will be heard at Kendal Town Hall in the district council chamber.

During the consultation period, the licensing authority received submissions from Cumbria Fire and Rescue, Cumbria Police, and the council’s environmental protection team. The Home Office did not submit further evidence but expressed support for the review initiated by partner agencies, as noted in the meeting’s pre-agenda documentation.

The upcoming hearing will determine whether Blue Elephant can retain its licence or be subject to conditions or penalties as a result of the identified breaches.