The Licensing Sub-Committee of Southwark Council was scheduled to consider a summary review of the premises licence for Planet Nollywood, located at 319 Camberwell Road, London SE5 0HQ. This review was triggered by an application from the Metropolitan Police Service following a serious incident at the premises.

Summary Review of Planet Nollywood Premises Licence

The primary item scheduled for discussion was a summary review of the premises licence for Planet Nollywood, 319 Camberwell Road, London SE5 0HQ. This review was initiated by the Metropolitan Police Service under Section 53C of the Licensing Act 2003, following an incident on 1 February 2026.

The report pack detailed that the grounds for the review stemmed from a serious incident that occurred at the premises, resulting in five members of the public sustaining serious injuries, one of whom suffered life-changing injuries. The police application stated that the disorder escalated from a minor interaction between patrons, leading to the use of glass bottles and furniture as weapons. A significant concern raised was the alleged breach of condition 841 of the premises licence, which stipulates that all beverages should be served in polycarbonate or plastic containers, with an exception only for still or sparkling wine in the restaurant area. Evidence suggested that glass beer bottles were used during the disorder, directly contravening this condition and contributing to the severity of the injuries.

Representations were expected from responsible authorities, including the Environmental Protection Team and the Licensing Authority itself, both reportedly requesting the revocation of the premises licence. Additionally, six representations from other persons were included, detailing concerns about ongoing anti-social behaviour associated with the venue, such as loud music, littering, violence, and alleged drink driving and drug dealing.

The report pack also provided a history of the premises' operating history, including previous reviews and complaints. It noted that the premises had been subject to previous reviews in 2011 and 2023, with conditions imposed on the licence on multiple occasions. The most recent inspection on 8 August 2024 found the premises to be operating in full compliance, but a visit on 25 November 2023 identified several licence conditions not being complied with.

The sub-committee was also to consider the Southwark Council Statement of Licensing Policy 2021-2026, particularly sections relating to the four licensing objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, the promotion of public safety, the prevention of nuisance, and the protection of children from harm. The premises is located within a Cumulative Impact Area (CIA), and the policy recommends specific closing times for premises within District Town Centres.

The report outlined the principles for making determinations under the Licensing Act 2003, including the requirement to consider the application on its merits, have regard to the Licensing Act 2003, the Section 182 Guidance, the council's statement of licensing policy, and any relevant representations. The sub-committee was reminded of its quasi-judicial capacity, requiring impartiality and a decision based solely on evidence and relevant law.

The report also detailed the interim steps taken by the Licensing Sub-Committee on 6 February 2026, which resulted in the suspension of the premises licence pending the full review hearing. This decision was made following the police's certification that the premises were associated with serious crime and disorder. The reasons provided for the interim suspension highlighted the serious incident on 1 February 2026, the resulting injuries, and the alleged breach of condition 841 regarding the use of glass bottles.

The meeting agenda also included standard procedural items such as the election of a chair, apologies, confirmation of voting members, notification of urgent items, and the disclosure of interests.