The Licensing Sub-Committee of Havering Council met on Tuesday 07 April 2026 to consider applications to transfer the premises licence and vary the designated premises supervisor (DPS) for The Drinks Seller at 59 Chippenham Road, Romford. The committee decided not to grant the applications.

The Drinks Seller, 59 Chippenham Road, Romford

The committee considered two applications concerning The Drinks Seller: one to transfer the premises licence and another to vary the designated premises supervisor (DPS). These applications followed a previous review of the premises licence due to concerns about bad practice. The Metropolitan Police lodged an objection to both applications.

The police's primary concern was that the proposed DPS, Hashveen Kaur Hakimzada, was not the individual who would genuinely exercise day-to-day control over the premises. This concern stemmed from the fact that the contact details provided in the application – an email address and phone number – belonged to her father, Gurman Singh Hakimzada. Police investigations revealed that Gurman Singh Hakimzada had a previous premises licence revoked in 2018 due to issues including the seizure of illegal tobacco and continuing to sell alcohol during a licence suspension.

Furthermore, the police highlighted that Ms. Hakimzada resides approximately 60 miles away from the premises, raising questions about her ability to provide effective day-to-day management. They suggested this arrangement could be a transfer by proxy, undermining the accountability that the DPS role is intended to provide.

During the hearing, Ms. Hakimzada explained that her father, who has extensive business experience, was guiding her as she is new to the industry and aiming to build a future for herself and her fiancé. She stated that she had given consent for her father's contact details to be used as she works part-time at Specsavers and may not always be readily available by phone. She was aware of her father's previous licence revocation but stated it was not a concern as he is no longer involved in the business.

The committee questioned Ms. Hakimzada extensively on her understanding of the licensing objectives, her experience, and her plans for managing the premises. They also explored the lease arrangements for the property, which were still under negotiation.

After deliberation, the subcommittee decided not to grant the licence transfer and DPS variation. Ms. Hakimzada and her representatives were informed that they would receive written reasons for the refusal within five days and have 21 days to appeal the decision. The current licence holder, Mr. Salih Maden, retains his licence while the appeal period is active.