The Licensing Sub Committee E was scheduled to consider a review of a premises licence for Mare Street Wine Ltd. The meeting's agenda also included procedural items and a standing item on Temporary Event Notices.

Review of Premises Licence: Mare Street Wine Ltd

The committee was scheduled to consider a review of the premises licence for Mare Street Wine Ltd, located at 157a Mare Street, London, E8 3RH. This review was initiated by David Hunt on behalf of Trading Standards, citing concerns related to the prevention of crime and disorder and public safety.

The report pack detailed that the application for review was based on allegations of the sale of illicit tobacco and vapes, as well as the sale of single cigarettes. Inspections by Trading Standards and the police reportedly found various illicit tobacco products, duty-evaded cigarettes, and non-compliant vapes at the premises. There were also concerns raised about the sale of supermarket-branded alcohol, with the premises reportedly unable to provide invoices for these items. Furthermore, a test purchase allegedly resulted in the sale of a nicotine vape to a 15-year-old volunteer.

The Metropolitan Police also submitted representations supporting the review, highlighting consistent failings at the premises despite previous visits and warnings. These included issues with the Designated Premises Supervisor's (DPS) knowledge of licensing objectives and conditions, the discovery of what appeared to be stolen goods, and a lack of proper record-keeping for CCTV and refusals. The police noted that the premises operates 24 hours a day and is located near a supported accommodation hostel, raising concerns about potential public nuisance and the sale of alcohol to vulnerable individuals.

Representations were also received from the Licensing Authority, echoing the concerns raised by Trading Standards and the police. They highlighted potential breaches of the Licensing Act 2003, including the keeping of smuggled goods and the undermining of the protection of children from harm licensing objective due to the alleged sale of vapes to a minor.

In contrast, a representation from a local resident expressed opposition to the review, stating that the shop was a positive part of the community and that the alleged issues were not linked to the premises. The resident also noted the presence of other alcohol retailers nearby and argued that revoking this licence would unfairly impact the business.

Mare Street Wine Ltd, represented by NARTS Consultancy, stated that they had implemented corrective measures, including the dismissal of the previous DPS, Mr Murat Akbas, and the appointment of a new DPS, Mr Murat Kanber. They also indicated plans for staff training and a desire for a joint meeting with the authorities to discuss improvements. The company noted that the Director, Ms Sultan Altun, had been dealing with challenging personal circumstances related to her mother's health.

The report pack outlined the potential decisions the Sub-Committee could make, including taking no action, modifying licence conditions, excluding licensable activities, removing the DPS, suspending the licence, or revoking the licence entirely.

Licensing Sub-Committee Hearing Procedure

The committee was also scheduled to review the standard procedure for Licensing Sub-Committee hearings under the Licensing Act 2003. This procedure details how hearings are conducted, the rights of applicants and responsible authorities, and the decision-making powers of the Sub-Committee.

Temporary Event Notices - Standing Item

A standing item on Temporary Event Notices (TENs) was also listed on the agenda. This typically involves the committee being informed of any TENs received and any objections raised by responsible authorities.