This week in Ealing:

Late-Night Entertainment Licence Sparks Resident Concerns Over Noise and Safety

A new premises licence application for Angels Club Basement at 25 Broadway, West Ealing, W13 9DA has ignited significant opposition from residents and local groups. The applicant, Bianca Ailincai, is seeking permission to serve alcohol and host live music and dance performances until the early hours of the morning, with proposed closing times of 3:30 AM for alcohol and dancing, and 4:00 AM for late-night refreshment.

The application has drawn a strong reaction, with seventeen objections lodged from various bodies, including the Metropolitan Police Service, the council's own Enforcement & Compliance team, and thirteen concerned residents and the Walpole Residents Association. These objections highlight potential impacts on all four licensing objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm.

Residents are particularly worried about increased noise pollution from music and patrons, exacerbating existing issues with street drinking and anti-social behaviour in the West Ealing Broadway area. The basement location, coupled with a narrow alleyway access, has also raised public safety concerns, with fears of confrontations and unsafe dispersal of crowds late at night. The Metropolitan Police have voiced worries about the suitability of the venue for late-night operations, potential criminal activity, and the safeguarding of women.

This application is particularly sensitive as the premises is located within a Special Policy Area (SPA), designated to address the cumulative impact of licensed premises. The proposed hours also fall outside the council's core licensing policy, which aims to limit late-night activities to mitigate harm. Previous licence applications for this location have been refused, underscoring the challenges in balancing entertainment with community well-being. The Licensing Sub-Committee will weigh these concerns against the applicant's proposals, with potential outcomes ranging from granting the licence with strict conditions to outright refusal.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Housing Development Companies Face Closure Amid Financial Woes

Ealing Council's wholly owned housing development companies, Broadway Living Ltd (BL) and Broadway Living Registered Provider Ltd (BLRP), are facing closure due to mounting financial difficulties. The Shareholder Committee and the Cabinet are set to discuss proposals to wind down these entities, which were established with the aim of increasing the supply of affordable housing in the borough.

Independent reviews have concluded that BL and BLRP are no longer financially viable. Factors contributing to this include escalating construction costs, rising interest rates, and the insolvency of BLRP's primary contractor, Henry Construction. The proposed solution involves transferring all homes and assets currently held by BLRP and BL directly to the council's Housing Revenue Account (HRA). This move is intended to safeguard existing affordable homes and protect the rights of tenants. Following these transfers, the companies would be dissolved through a Members' Voluntary Liquidation.

This decision carries significant financial implications, with a projected debt and equity write-off of £6.550 million. The outstanding debt will be charged to the General Fund over 50 years. The council will also need to manage the repayment of grants from the Greater London Authority (GLA) and potential accrual of further capitalised interest. Councillor Louise Brett, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Safe and Genuinely Affordable Homes, is overseeing the strategic direction of housing matters, while Peter George, Strategic Director of Economy & Sustainability, has authored the report detailing these proposals.

Link to Shareholder Committee meeting Link to Cabinet meeting

Council Faces Significant Financial Pressures in 2025/26 Outturn

Ealing Council's Cabinet will review the financial performance for the 2025/26 financial year, revealing a complex picture of underspends in some areas and significant overspends in others. While the General Fund and Housing Revenue Account (HRA) show an overall underspend, with contributions made to reserves, demand-led services are facing considerable pressure.

Adults & Public Health and Children's & Schools departments have reported substantial overspends, largely attributed to increased placement costs and rising demand for services. The Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) account is showing a cumulative deficit, primarily within the High Needs Block, which supports children with special educational needs and disabilities. The capital programme also reports a net underspend, with proposals to re-profile certain schemes. These financial challenges highlight the ongoing strain on public services and the need for careful management of resources, particularly for vulnerable residents who rely on these essential services.

Link to Cabinet meeting

Other Matters

Tiger Bay Licence Application Faces Noise Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee met to consider a new premises licence application for Tiger Bay, located at 9-11 Royal Parade, Ealing, W5 1ET. The applicant sought permission for extensive licensable activities, including late-night alcohol sales and entertainment until 4:30 AM on weekends. However, the application was met with an objection from the Environmental Health's Pollution Control Team, citing concerns about public nuisance due to noise impact on nearby residential properties. The team noted a history of noise complaints and expressed doubts about the applicant's ability to prevent nuisance, particularly given the proximity of residential flats and a hotel. The committee had the power to grant the licence, modify conditions, or refuse it entirely.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Doreen's Cafe Seeks Licence for Alcohol and Music

A new premises licence application for Doreen's, a cafe and tea room at 56 Pitshanger Lane, Ealing, W5 1QY, was considered by the Licensing Sub-Committee. The application sought permission for the supply of alcohol and the playing of recorded music. While conditions were agreed with the Metropolitan Police, objections were raised by local residents, Mr. Justin Walker and Miss Jessica Stone, on the grounds of preventing public nuisance and protecting children from harm, particularly concerning the use of the outdoor space. The committee's decision would balance the applicant's business needs with the community's concerns.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

This week in Ealing:

Council Gears Up for New Term: Mayor Elected, Committees Formed, and Gambling Policy Reviewed

Ealing Council held its annual meeting on Tuesday, 26 May 2026, marking the start of a new political year. The council formally elected its Mayor and Deputy Mayor, reviewed the political balance across its committees, and made crucial appointments to various bodies. A significant policy decision was also made regarding the council's approach to gambling.

New Leadership and Committee Appointments

The meeting began with the formal election of the Mayor and Deputy Mayor, setting the tone for the council's leadership for the coming year. Following this, the council addressed the review of its political balance, a process dictated by the Local Government and Housing Act 1989. This ensures that seats on committees reflect the overall political makeup of the council, promoting fairness in decision-making.

Crucially, the council then proceeded to appoint councillors to its various committees and other bodies. These appointments are vital as they determine who will scrutinise council decisions, oversee specific service areas, and represent Ealing on external organisations. The composition of these committees directly influences the council's ability to effectively govern and serve its residents.

Ealing to Remain a No Casino Borough

A key decision made by the council was the reaffirmation of its resolution not to issue casino premises licences. This policy, detailed in the council's Statement of Gambling Licensing Policy 2026–2029, was developed following extensive public consultation. The report pack indicated that the overwhelming sentiment from residents was to maintain the current stance, with significant concerns raised about the potential for increased crime, anti-social behaviour, and negative impacts on local communities.

This decision directly affects the types of entertainment and gambling facilities available within Ealing. By choosing not to permit casinos, the council signals its priority in safeguarding vulnerable individuals and maintaining the character of its neighbourhoods. The policy aims to uphold the three core licensing objectives: preventing gambling from being a source of crime or disorder, ensuring gambling is conducted fairly and openly, and protecting children and vulnerable persons.

Link to Council meeting

Local Businesses Face Licensing Scrutiny: Alcohol Sales and Community Impact Under Review

Two Ealing Licensing Sub-Committees convened on Wednesday, 27 May 2026, to consider applications and reviews that will shape the operation of local businesses and their impact on the community. These decisions highlight the council's role in balancing economic activity with the need to prevent crime, nuisance, and ensure public safety.

Majestic Wine Warehouse: Residents Raise Concerns Over Noise and Late Hours

The Licensing Sub-Committee met to consider a new premises licence application for Majestic Wine Warehouse at 92 - 96 St Marys Road, Ealing, W5 5EX. The application sought permission for the supply of alcohol for off-premises consumption with proposed hours extending until 11 pm on most days and 8 am on Sundays.

However, the application faced objections from the Walpole Residents' Association and a local resident, Jenna Julius. Their concerns centred on the potential for increased noise and disturbance from customers and vehicles, particularly given the premises' location on a residential street. They argued that the proposed hours could lead to loitering, impact public safety, and encourage drunk driving. The objectors requested a reduction in operating hours, with a proposed 8 pm closing time on weekdays and an 11 am Sunday opening.

The committee's decision will weigh the applicant's business needs against the community's right to peace and safety, guided by the Council's Statement of Licensing Policy. This policy aims to promote the four licensing objectives, and any conditions imposed will be designed to mitigate potential negative impacts.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

AK Food & Wine: Licence Review Over Illicit Goods and Disregard for Law

In a separate session, another Licensing Sub-Committee convened to review the premises licence for AK Food & Wine at 416 Greenford Road, Greenford, UB6 9AH. This review was initiated by the council's Licensing Enforcement and Compliance Team following an inspection that uncovered a significant quantity of illicit cigarettes, tobacco, and other contraband.

The inspection revealed that the premises was operating within a Special Policy Area, and the discovery of illicit goods, with an estimated unpaid duty of £3310, indicated a failure to promote the Prevention of Crime and Disorder licensing objective. The report stated that the trade in illegal goods not only damages funding for public services but also undermines legitimate businesses and can be linked to organised crime. The report strongly recommended the revocation of the premises licence due to the serious incident and the obvious disregard for the law.

This case highlights the serious consequences for businesses that flout regulations, particularly when it involves the sale of illegal goods. Such activities can have a detrimental effect on public health and safety, and the council's action aims to protect both consumers and the wider community.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

This week in Ealing:

Licence Review for AKP Retailer: Concerns Over Illegal Goods and Working Practices

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Wednesday, 20 May 2026, to consider a crucial review of the premises licence for AKP Retailer, located at 51 Oldfields Circus, Northolt, UB5 4RR. This review, initiated by Ealing Council's Licensing Enforcement and Compliance Team, focused on allegations of prevention of crime and disorder, stemming from a joint visit by Home Office Immigration Officers and Licensing Compliance officers on Saturday, 29 November 2025.

During the inspection, officers discovered a significant quantity of illicit goods, including Indian tobacco, Khat, and duty-diverted whisky. They also found a large stock of high-strength beers and cases of beer stored in breach of licence conditions. A van parked outside the premises contained illicit cigarettes and rolling tobacco. Furthermore, the premises appeared to have expanded into an adjacent unit without proper notification or a new licence application.

The report highlighted that one male worker detained during the visit was an illegal entrant, and the premises licence holder was found to be failing to promote the Prevention of Crime and Disorder licensing objective. Several conditions attached to the premises licence following a hearing in May 2018 were allegedly being breached.

The Licensing Enforcement and Compliance Officer, Robert Dear, recommended the revocation of the premises licence due to the serious nature of the findings and the apparent disregard for the law. This decision carries significant weight, as it directly impacts the local community's safety and the integrity of licensed businesses. The report also referenced Ealing Council's Statement of Licensing Policy, which guides the council's approach to promoting the four licensing objectives.

No representations were received from responsible authorities or interested parties by the deadline, meaning the committee's decision will be based solely on the evidence presented by the council's enforcement team.

The committee also reviewed procedural guidance for hearings and determined any matters to be considered in private.

Link to Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

This week in Ealing:

School Funding Debates: Ealing Schools Forum Tackles Budgets for 2026-27

The Ealing Schools Forum met on Wednesday, 29 April 2026, to grapple with the crucial issue of school funding for the upcoming academic year. The forum, a vital body for consulting on and deciding school funding and policies, reviewed detailed reports on the Early Years Block, Schools Block, and High Needs Block. These discussions directly impact the resources available to Ealing's schools, affecting everything from class sizes and teacher salaries to the support provided for students with special educational needs.

Key Funding Allocations Under Review

The forum's agenda included a deep dive into the proposed school funding for 2026-27. This involved:

• Early Years Block: Examining proposed rates for the Early Years Funding Formula, informed by consultations with early years providers. This funding is critical for ensuring accessible and high-quality childcare and early education for young children.
• Schools Block: Reviewing budgeted commitments and indicative allocations for primary and secondary schools. This directly influences how much funding each school receives, impacting their ability to deliver the curriculum and support their students.
• High Needs Block: Considering funding for students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). This includes proposed top-up funding arrangements for special schools and specialist provision in mainstream schools, as well as new funding streams like the Inclusive Mainstream Fund. Decisions here are paramount for ensuring that vulnerable students receive the support they need to thrive.

The forum also considered the implications of national reforms, such as the Schools White Paper and SEND reforms, and how these translate into new and expanded funding streams for Ealing. The adequacy of the Special Educational Needs Inclusion Fund (SENIF) and new mechanisms for accessing it were also on the table, with potential consequences for the support available to children with complex needs.

Scheme for Financing Schools and Membership Review

Beyond direct funding allocations, the forum was set to consider the Scheme for Financing Schools for 2026-27. This scheme outlines how schools are funded and managed, with the report indicating it would be largely consistent with the previous year, featuring minor wording and date updates. The continuation of the existing balance control mechanism for excess surplus balances was also to be decided.

Additionally, the forum reviewed its own membership, with a report detailing the categories of members, their schools, and the duration of their terms. This ensures the forum remains representative of the diverse educational landscape in Ealing.

Link to Ealing Schools Forum meeting

Safer Neighbourhood Board Tackles Crime, Anti-Social Behaviour, and Future Funding

The Ealing Safer Neighbourhood Board met on Tuesday, 28 April 2026, to address pressing issues of crime and anti-social behaviour across the borough, while also looking ahead to the future of community safety initiatives and their funding. The board plays a crucial role in fostering collaboration between residents, the police, and the council to create safer communities.

Project Updates and Potential Funding Shifts

The board received updates on several ongoing projects aimed at improving community well-being, including The Ease Project (focused on women), the Gauntlet Flight Academy, and Creative Connection at Open Havelock. The presentation of two new projects that align with the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) criteria, including a book for toddlers with Special Educational Needs, highlighted the diverse range of community-led safety initiatives being supported.

A significant point of discussion was the potential shift of Safer Neighbourhood Boards (SNBs) to be under the direct control of the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS). This could have substantial implications for how SNBs are funded and their ability to independently sponsor projects. MOPAC's stated intention to enforce stricter funding rules in the coming year means that the board's capacity to support local initiatives may be affected. The board also considered an invitation to host chairs from other SNBs, offering a platform to share Ealing's successful operational and engagement model with the police.

Police Report: Crime Trends and Targeted Operations

The board heard from police representatives, including Inspector Leigh Ballard, on the current crime landscape in Ealing. Key areas of focus included:

• Ealing Town Centre: Ongoing efforts to counter crime and anti-social behaviour in this designated tier one venue, with a planned Live Facial Recognition (LFR) deployment.
• Faith Premises: Increased patrols around local faith buildings following incidents elsewhere, and efforts to address school-related conflicts escalating on social media.
• Operational Updates: Details were provided on successful policing during Eid Chaand Raat, resulting in arrests and dispersal orders. The Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee, a set of Home Office targets, was noted as having high compliance rates in Ealing.
• Targeted Enforcement: Specific operations were highlighted, including arrests for drug offences in Acton, a reduction in vehicle fatalities through targeted patrols, and the issuance of a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) to a persistent street drinker. Disruptions to drug supply lines in Northolt and the closure of properties linked to anti-social behaviour and drug use were also reported.
• Public Safety: The board was informed about planned days of action in Greenford to locate suspects, and discussions around indecent exposure offences along the canal network.
• Southall Operations: Arrests for drug offences leading to custodial sentences, and actions taken in connection with criminal damage to Ealing minibuses. The closure of a property linked to drug use and rough sleeping was also discussed.
• Operation Overvolt: Enforcement against speeding bikes and e-scooters, leading to seizures and prosecutions.
• Serious Crime: Custodial sentences for breaches of Criminal Behaviour Orders and armed robbery were reported.
• Abandoned Vehicles: The removal of 178 abandoned vehicles in Southall was noted.
• Major Incidents: The arrest of a male suspected of rape and kidnapping, who was handed over to Dorset Police, and the recovery of a significant quantity of Class A drugs.
• Vulnerable Individuals: Ongoing collaboration with charities and Project Adda Officers to support individuals experiencing homelessness and substance misuse.
• Illegal Vapes: The acquisition of a vape testing machine and subsequent seizures of illegal vapes and cigarettes in Southall.

The police representatives clarified that there were no plans to reduce the number of officers assigned to any ward. The use of Public Order Support (PSU) units during Eid Chaand Raat was explained, with the majority of officers being locally based. The introduction of electric bikes for policing and the deployment of drones across London boroughs were also discussed. The report indicated that police station gates were occasionally left open overnight to allow individuals to exit safely. Met Engage was identified as a key platform for gathering public suggestions, with an expectation for Ealing officers to respond to email enquiries within 48 hours.

Link to Ealing Safer Neighbourhood Board meeting