Violence at Town Nightclub Could Trigger Council Licensing Review Amid Ongoing Disorder Concerns...

The Tipsy Doorman in Church Street, Hartlepool

The Hartlepool Nightclub had only been granted a licence to serve alcohol until 4am just months ago, however its claimed the bar could now face an early licence review in the wake of several incidents of alleged violent disorder....

29th June 2025

A Hartlepool nightclub could once again find itself under the scrutiny of local councillors, with its late-night licence to serve alcohol potentially at risk following what is being described as a serious assault occurring on the premises over the weekend.

The Tipsy Doorman, located on Church Street, has been operating under a conditional 4am alcohol and music licence granted by Hartlepool Borough Council in February 2025. The licence, issued for six months was said to be 'on a provisional basis', following whats reported to have been confusion surrounding the venue’s paperwork last year when a lapse in the previous licence caused delays and forced a hearing.

Crucially, Hartlepool Borough Council — which in 2023 was publicly branded as an authority of “no public confidence” by residents following financial scandals, planning failures, and other mismanagement — agreed to issue the licence amidst claims the venue would help regenerate Church Street. However, the club has reportedly drawn attention for all the wrong reasons since the licence was granted..

Over recent months, its claimed several incidents of alleged disorder have been reported at the venue. The most recent, and arguably most serious to date, occurred this weekend when a 23-year-old man required paramedic treatment following a violent assault inside the club.

A spokesman for Cleveland Police confirmed officers are actively investigating the assault and are appealing for witnesses:

“There are various inquiries ongoing and as part of the investigation, I know there were numerous people in the bar at the time the assault took place who I am keen to speak to. I would encourage anyone with information to come forward as it could assist with our inquiries.”

The nightclub’s management are understood to have submitted an application to make their 4am licence permanent. However, in light of the latest alleged violent incident, sources suggest that Cleveland Police are now likely to lodge formal objections to these plans — potentially forcing the club back before the council’s Licensing Sub-Committee for a decision to be made..

If that happens, it will likely reopen wider questions about Church Street’s suitability for late-night venues, especially with local residents and businesses expressing growing concerns over public safety, street disorder, and the adequacy of policing in the area.

Given the council’s previous handling of licensing matters — including its chaotic oversight of other nightlife premises and historic failures to act on community complaints — there likely to be significant public interest over whether councillors act decisively this time, or continue to rubber-stamp potentially problem venues.