Ipswich councillor welcomes shut down of Waterlily pub

Ipswich Borough Council took action against the Waterlily pub in St Helen's Street last Friday after police discovered a machete and drugs on the premise.

Councillor John Cook explained why he believed revoking the pub’s licence was necessary in light of the decision.

He said: “Local residents asked me to represent them at the Licence Review relating to the Waterlily, held last Friday.

Councillor John Cook said the decision to revoke the licence was 'totally correct' (Image: Newsquest) “As the police evidence was presented it became clear exactly how bad the situation was.

“Accounts of drug taking, drug dealing, abuse and obstruction of police, and violent behaviour of staff and customers, means the licensing subcommittee was totally correct to revoke the premises licence."

Mr Cook added: “Ipswich residents should welcome the fact that the borough takes its public protection duties seriously."

During the licencing hearing, Suffolk police licensing officer Sharon Betts-Palmer said: "The venue seems to be run by an organised criminal gang.

"We have very grave concerns about the way that the Waterlily is being run.

The Waterlily pub in St Helen's Street (Image: Google Maps)

"There are a lot of licence conditions that the site is not adhering to, such as protection against crime and disorder, preventing public nuisance and protecting children from harm."

A list of incidents that took place at the venue since October 2023 was presented to the committee, including video footage from two body-worn police cameras during separate visits on September 13. 

The footage showed two male managers, along with customers, being aggressive and abusive to police officers, who did not let them enter the premises. 

After hearing all the statements, the committee, chaired by councillor Lucy Grant, decided that the licence of the Waterlily should be revoked immediately.