I AM writing regarding the article about the Caxton Arms (The Argus, April 23). I am the landlord and tenant of the Caxton, and I would like to try to clear up any misunderstanding that may have occurred over our licence and planning applications.

Since the introduction of the new licensing act at the end of 2005, the pub had a licence to serve alcohol until 1am and stay open until 1.30am, so there has been no change there. The other amendments are so that coffee and snacks can be served as an alternative to alcoholic beverages until closing time, and an application for a live music licence, which will only be used occasionally, and will only involve music in the downstairs function room bar.

The planning application is for an outside smoking area at the back of the pub, where there is already an outside garden area.

This area is being created specifically to reduce the amount of noise outside the front of the pub in the street.

As always with these licenses, they are rarely used to the maximum allowable times, and are there for special occasions. Opening times will remain more or less as they always have been.

I would also like to make it known to all concerned that I am always available for consultation to local residents and those that I have spoken with are happy with the situation.

  • James Brett, North Gardens, Brighton