A Darlington pub has lost its licence to sell alcohol after police identified 'significant licensing management failings' before the alleged murder of Leanne Park.
The 44-year-old mum and care worker was found dead in a flat above The Greyhound pub on Parkgate after emergency crews were called at 9.15pm last Wednesday, September 23.
Durham Police previously applied for the licences of The Greyhound and the Black Swan, also on Parkgate, to be reviewed following the investigation into Ms Park's death.
At Friday's meeting (October 23) of the Licensing Act 2003 Sub-Committee, members considered a review of the premises licence for the Black Swan and resolved to revoke the licence.
The Black Swan on Parkgate in Darlington
This means the Black Swan is no longer licensed to sell alcohol. This decision can be appealed to magistrates by the licence holder.
Following an urgent licensing hearing on September 30, the premises licences for both pubs were suspended as an interim measure pending full reviews, while their designated premises supervisors were also removed.
The Greyhound Hotel on Parkgate in Darlington
Papers prepared as part of the Black Swan licensing process said the police investigation had "highlighted significant licencing management failings in the period prior to this crime".
The Northern Echo understands Ms Park had been in both pubs in the hours before her death.
It comes after Andrew Bell, 44, appeared before a judge accused of murdering Leanne, who worked at Ventress Hall care home in Darlington.
Bell appeared by video link from Holme House Prison and was remanded in custody until October 26, when he will be asked to enter a plea.
The Black Swan on Parkgate in Darlington
Judge Francis Laird told him: "You will next be before the court on October 26 and on that occasion, you will be required to submit a plea to the charge."
A 27-year-old man arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender has been bailed.
Floral tributes for Leanne, whom her family called the “best mam, nana, daughter and friend” were left outside The Greyhound following her death.
Leanne Park, 44, a mum, nana, daughter and friend
In a statement, her family said: "She was loved by everyone and would do anything for anyone.
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"She was the life and soul of the party and loved to dance.
"We love her so much and miss her more than words can describe. We are completely devastated. Her death has ripped the heart out of our family.
"We are grateful for all the kind messages and the support since her death. We ask that everyone remembers her for the kind-hearted woman she was."