THE business behind a new café/bar for Poundbury says it has no intention of becoming a drinking establishment.

Planning consent for the building, at Crown Square, was recently granted for it to become a coffee and cocktail bar, a change of use from its initial consent as a commercial unit.

The decision led to fears by some town councillors that the new use would create additional noise and disturbance for those living in apartments alongside and above the premises – with a plea for the hours to be limited.

But in an application for a premises licence, allowing it to serve alcohol, Matthil Ltd from Halstock Street, Poundbury, says the premises will only be open 10am until 10pm.

The application says “It will not primarily be a drinking establishment or involve off-supply of alcohol. Drinks will be served to accompany the meals.”

The business says only those who hold a personal licence or have been specifically trained will be allowed to serve alcohol with strict checks on ID when a customer’s age is questioned, with CCTV in use on the premises.

“The business will not be open late, with sales finishing at 9.30pm. There will be no loud of live music played in the premises. Sales of alcohol will be an accompaniment to food, rather than being a drinking only business,” said the application.

Mr Matthew McCourtie from Martinstown has been named in the application as the designated premises supervisor. Mr McCourtie is one of two directors of Matthil Ltd which was incorporated in April 2024.

Public comments on the licence application need to be received by the Dorset Council licensing team by July 11.