Alcohol licenses of three Haarlem clubs correctly revoked according to Council of State

The Council of State has confirmed that the mayor of Haarlem correctly revoked the alcohol licenses of three clubs owned by Martijn Bevelander. The decision follows reports of alcohol being served to minors and concerns regarding public safety and the owner's conduct.
The Council of State has upheld the decision by Haarlem Mayor Jos Wienen to revoke the alcohol licenses of three clubs located on Smedestraat. Club June, CHMP, and Shibuya, all owned by Martijn Bevelander, have remained closed since May 30, 2023. The Mayor justified the revocation based on concerns regarding public order, safety, and morality, citing reports that the clubs served alcohol to minors and allowed young women to become severely intoxicated, with some requiring hospitalization.
The legal battle included allegations of rape reported by two minors against the owner in 2021, though the case was later dropped due to insufficient evidence. Additionally, the owner had previously received a warning in 2016 following violent incidents involving security staff. Following the initial license withdrawal, Bevelander appealed to the courts, but the judiciary ultimately supported the city's stance. The Council of State's final ruling ensures that the establishments will remain shut, validating the municipality's authority to protect community welfare through these regulatory measures.
Based on reporting by rss. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

