The Licensing Sub-Committee (3) of Westminster Council met on Thursday 24 September 2026 to consider three licensing applications. The applications included a premises licence variation for Peacock and Empire, a premises licence variation for The Barbary, and a renewal of a special treatment licence for The Nail Garden.

Peacock and Empire, 34 George Street, London W1U 7DP

The committee was scheduled to consider a variation to the premises licence for Peacock and Empire, located at 34 George Street, London W1U 7DP. The application sought to regularise changes to the premises layout, add provision for the supply of alcohol for consumption off the premises until 23:00 daily, and amend existing restaurant licence conditions relating to the supply of alcohol in the basement.

Representations were received from the Metropolitan Police Service, Environmental Health, and several interested parties, including residents and a residents' association. The police raised concerns regarding the potential for increased crime and disorder, and the protection of children from harm. Environmental Health also raised concerns about potential impacts on public safety and public nuisance. Residents' objections focused on the potential for increased public nuisance due to later licensing hours, the possibility of the ground floor operating as a bar without food, and the introduction of an external seating area.

The applicant, Gunpowder Empire Marylebone Ltd, submitted extensive documentation outlining their proposed concept, which included a restaurant and bistro specialising in northern Indian cuisine. They addressed concerns regarding the ground floor use, proposing it as a community hub with an emphasis on food, and regarding the external area, proposing a limit of 34 seated customers, closure at 22:00, and the installation of awnings to mitigate noise. They also detailed plans for soundproofing and proposed a comprehensive set of new licence conditions.

The committee also had access to the City of Westminster Statement of Licensing Policy, including policies HRS1 (Core Hours) and RNT1 (Restaurants), which were relevant to the application.

The Barbary, Basement Floor and Ground Floor, 112 Westbourne Grove, London W2 5UR

The committee was scheduled to consider a variation to the premises licence for The Barbary, located at 112 Westbourne Grove, London W2 5UR. The application proposed to vary the permitted hours for the sale of alcohol and late-night refreshment to align with Westminster's Core Hours Policy, with an additional 30 minutes added until the premises closes.

Representations were received from residents and the South East Bayswater Residents' Association (SEBRA), both objecting to the application. Residents expressed concerns about existing disturbance and the potential for increased noise and nuisance with extended hours, particularly given the residential accommodation above and nearby. SEBRA, while not objecting to the proposed hours for alcohol sales aligning with core hours, did object to the additional 30 minutes of drinking up time, arguing it could impinge on residents' sleep.

The applicant, Zlny Limited, submitted a mediation email stating their primary objective was to allow existing restaurant guests to stay longer, facilitating a more gradual closure, and that they were not proposing to change their restaurant business model to a late bar. They also proposed new dispersal procedures.

The committee had regard to relevant policies, including SCZ1 (Special Consideration Zones), RNT1 (Restaurants), and HRS1 (Core Hours). Correspondence between a resident and Westminster City Council's Environmental Health team regarding ongoing noise and odour issues at the premises was also provided.

The Nail Garden, Basement and Ground Floor, 31 Whitcomb Street, London WC2H 7EP

The committee was scheduled to consider the renewal of a special treatment licence for The Nail Garden, located at 31 Whitcomb Street, London WC2H 7EP. The application was for a renewal of a licence that had previously expired and been subject to a new application and subsequent renewal.

Representations were received from Francis Keegan, a City Inspector Team Leader for Westminster City Council, who lodged an objection to the renewal. Mr Keegan detailed numerous serious concerns found during visits to the premises, including issues with management, staff training records, potential trip hazards, inadequate fire safety checks, and the presence of unverified individuals providing treatments. He stated his view that the applicant was incapable of complying with the licence terms and indicated he would oppose the renewal of a licence for another venue operated by the same company.

The committee was provided with details of the relevant legislation, Part II of the London Local Authorities Act 1991, which governs special treatment premises, and the grounds for refusal of such licences. The applicant had submitted supporting documents, including their current special treatment licence and a fire safety risk assessment.

The committee was also reminded of its duty under the Equality Act 2010.