Peterborough pub seeks licence change to stop boxing and martial arts events being held at the premises
A pub in Peterborough is seeking to change its licence agreement in a move that will prevent boxing and martial arts events being held at the premises.
An application has been made to vary the premises licence conditions for The Peacock pub in London Road and follows police concerns about ‘escalating violence and disorder’ from legally-held boxing-type competitions that have attracted up to 200 people.
The application has been made by the licensing manager of Admiral Taverns, which is the registered premises licence holder, and if approved would see conditions imposed that have been agreed as a result of talks with the police.
The proposed variation states the premises or its grounds shall not be used for the organisation, promotion, hosting or facilitation of any boxing event, white-collar boxing event, unlicensed boxing event, amateur boxing event or kickboxing event.
The variation also prohibits any mixed martial arts event, combat sports event, fight night, weigh-in event, martial arts contest involving competitive combat, or any similar organised sporting activity where participants engage in physical combat.
The action comes after police requested a review of the premises licence conditions after several incidents at organised boxing events legally held between March 14 and July 4, 2026.
Police concerns focus on incidents that demonstrate a ‘pattern of escalating risk, violence and disorder.’
Police state attendance can be up to 200 people with events attracting competitors, promoters, supporters, associates and family groups from various locations.
In a document submitted to Peterborough City Council, police state: “Recent incidents demonstrate that the controls in place at The Peacock have failed to adequately prevent disorder associated with these events.
"The evidence demonstrates that the operation and management of organised boxing and combat sport events at The Peacock has undermined licensing objectives, particularly the prevention of crime and disorder and public safety.”
Police highlight three events. One was on March 14 this year when an incident ‘demonstrated a clear risk of disorder and required active intervention by security staff to prevent further escalation.’
On July 4, police received reports of ‘fighting involving between 15 and 50 persons’ and ‘police intervention was required to restore order.’
On July 7, police received third-party footage appearing to show ‘a further violent incident in the rear car park following the event.’
The Peacock has been approached for a response.