Licence secured for world’s oldest music hall

TLT has secured a premises licence for Glasgow’s Britannia Panopticon, the world’s oldest surviving music hall,

Britannia Panopticon, on the city’s Trongate near Glasgow Cross, is perhaps most famous as the place where a silent film star Stan Laurel made his first public theatrical performance. It is now owned and operated by a charitable trust, the Friends of Britannia Panopticon.

TLT’s Stephen McGowan partner and head of licensing (Scotland), said: “It has been a privilege to help secure the licence for Britannia Panopticon, making sure that future generations can experience the venue and also learn about its colourful history.

“To get the licence over the line was a real team effort, with TLT’s Niall Hassard appearing at the provisional licence hearing and Alison Smith securing pop up licences for one off events. The local authorities and licensing officials were also helpful and flexible in getting the licence finally confirmed in time for the venue’s big opening night. A great achievement by all involved.”

Judith Bowers, the premises custodian, said: “This is a landmark moment in our history. The licence‎ allows us to offer the premises for a number of amazing events, with funds raised contributing to the further restoration of the premises. This is great for us and great for Glasgow.

“TLT bought into our uniqueness and really understood what we were trying to achieve. We’re so grateful for their advice, and the assistance of various council officers for getting the licence confirmed. The show must go on!”