Petition to save Duke of Cornwall pub in Weymouth

As reported, the Duke of Cornwall on St Edmund Street is having its premises licence reviewed by Dorset Council following a complaint by 'Respect Weymouth'.

The pub, which is one of the town's most popular live music venues, hosting bands and soloists throughout the week, could stand to lose its licence, or have conditions imposed - including a ban on performances, reduced hours, or a temporary suspension, amongst other options.

Respect Weymouth has not accused the pub of having music later than the times agreed in its licence - the complaint is mainly concerned with the level of noise during performances.

• Read more: Who are Duke of Cornwall Weymouth complainants?

Duke of Cornwall landlord Martin Rollings - also known as Martin Freed - believes the outcome of his licence review could set a precedent for other venues.

"If we win this it'll be a win for the whole town," he said. "If we lose then it'll be a nail in the coffin lid for live music in Weymouth. Many other venues will be doomed."

Following coverage in the Echo an online petition launched by the pub on Thursday afternoon had gathered 1,121 signatures at the time of writing, as comments were left by supporters.

The Duke of Cornwall

One, Collette Hart, said: "Live music in Weymouth is part of its soul and the Duke of Cornwall does a very good job of providing good music and supporting good musicians. Also, there is demand and a lot of support for this business, therefore it would be undemocratic surely, for the complaints of a few to override that majority."

Another, Malc Taylor, said: "This pub has been staging live local artists and bands for as long as I can remember. As far as music venues are concerned this may be a small venue but is an iconic venue and an important link in a chain for new artists and old to go on to much bigger things. Town centres need these type of pubs."

Martin Freed at the Duke of Cornwall

Lucy Hardwicke added: "The Duke of Cornwall has had live music for many years. It is an integral part of Weymouth's music scene."

Mr Rollings has thanked the community for "overwhelming" support.

"We are delighted by the messages we are getting," he said. "It seems the whole town is behind us. Thanks also to everyone who has taken the time to sign the petition and email the licensing team."

Have your say

People can put forward their views on the matter to Dorset Council as part of a public consultation. But Mr Rollings raised concerns that the email address for the council's licensing team is "confusing" - and said several people have had their emails bounce back as a result - asking people to ensure they have the correct address, which is licensingteamb@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

The petition can be found at www.change.org/p/dorset-council-licensing-department-save-the-duke-of-cornwall-in-weymouth