WINCHESTER’S one and only nightclub has been forced to surrender its licence after a cannabis factory was found inside.

Winchester City Council officers called an emergency sub-committee on Wednesday, November 22 after police discovered cannabis growing inside Vodka Nightclub in the early hours of Monday, November 23.

Committee members decided to suspend the premises licence and remove the designated premises supervisor (DPS).

This was supported by the licence holder.

READ MORE: Large cannabis factory in Vodka Nightclub, police confirm

A spokesperson for Winchester City Council said: “Since the hearing, the premises licence for Vodka Bar and Nightclub has been surrendered with immediate effect.

“This negates the need for a full review hearing in December. Any future tenant would be required to apply for a new premises licence, should they wish to provide licensable activities under the Licensing Act 2003.”

Vodka Nightclub and Bar, in Upper Brook Street, closed in May for a summer refurbishment but never re-opened.

Officers discovered a large number of cannabis plants at various stages of growth. All plants will be seized and destroyed once an investigation is carried out. 

A 54-year-old man from Winchester was arrested on suspicion of producing a controlled drug of Class B and acquiring/using/possessing criminal property. He has been bailed with conditions until 20 February while police enquiries continue.