This week in Southwark:

Local Shop Faces Licence Review Amidst Allegations of Selling Counterfeit Goods and Illegal Substances

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Thursday 30 April 2026 to consider a serious application for the review of a premises licence for Nunhead Express, also known as Nisa, located at 2 Kirkwood Road, London SE15 3XX. The review, initiated by Trading Standards, raises significant concerns about alleged breaches of all 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 allegations detailed in the report pack are extensive and span from June 2025 to December 2025. They include:

• Sale of illicit and counterfeit goods: Reports suggest the sale of counterfeit Marlboro Touch cigarettes, illicit Amber Leaf hand-rolling tobacco, and over 1130 illicit vapes. These actions are alleged to contravene regulations including the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations 2016 and the Trade Marks Act 1994.
• Possession of illegal drugs: During an inspection in July 2025, officers reportedly found cannabis and hashish on the premises, with evidence suggesting they were for sale. Over 100 canisters of nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, were also seized, believed to be intended for sale as a psychoactive substance. These findings are subject to a concurrent police investigation.
• Breach of licence conditions: It is alleged that a personal licence holder was not present on the premises when alcohol was available for sale, a direct contravention of licence conditions. There are also suggestions that customers may have been offered credit for purchases, potentially violating conditions that require alcohol to be paid for at the time of sale.
• Sale of non-compliant products: Officers reportedly discovered cans of Perla beer with labels not in English, failing to comply with food information regulations.
• Counterfeit toys: In July 2025, officers found 'Labubu' toy dolls on display, believed to be counterfeit and in violation of safety regulations.
• Failure to display premises licence: An inspection in December 2025 reportedly found the premises in breach of the Licensing Act 2003 for failing to have a copy of the full premises licence available.

The Metropolitan Police Service and the council's licensing department have submitted representations supporting the review. However, one representation was received from another person in support of the licence holder.

The sub-committee's decision could lead to modifications of the licence conditions, suspension of the licence for up to three months, or even revocation of the licence entirely. This case highlights the critical role of licensing in maintaining public safety and preventing illegal activities within our communities.

You can find more details about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting here.

Council's Foundational Rules Under Review: The Southwark Council Constitution

The Constitution meeting on Tuesday 28 April 2026 was scheduled to discuss the foundational document that governs how Southwark Council operates. While no specific decisions were recorded as being made, the report pack provided a comprehensive overview of the council's structure, decision-making processes, and the roles and responsibilities of its various committees and officers.

The constitution is the rulebook for the council, outlining everything from how councillors are elected to how decisions are made and how the council engages with the public. Understanding this document is key to understanding how local government functions and how residents can influence its operations.

Key areas covered in the report pack included:

• Council Structure: The constitution details that Southwark Council comprises 23 wards and 63 councillors. It defines the Council Assembly as the council's sovereign body, responsible for approving the budget and developing policies. The Cabinet, led by the Leader of the Council, is responsible for executive functions.
• Decision-Making: The constitution distinguishes between executive and non-executive functions, outlining how decisions are made by the Cabinet, Cabinet Committees, individual Cabinet Members, Chief Officers, and various regulatory committees. The concept of a Forward Plan, which lists forthcoming key decisions, was also detailed.
• Rules and Conduct: The document sets out procedural rules for meetings, access to information, and contract standing orders. It also includes codes of conduct for members, emphasizing principles like integrity, accountability, and openness.
• Commitments: The constitution highlights Southwark Council's commitment to equality under the Equality Act 2010 and its declaration of a Climate Emergency, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2030.
• Public Engagement: It outlines how the public can participate in the council's processes, including through consultation, attending meetings, and submitting petitions.

This discussion is fundamental to ensuring transparency and accountability in local governance, providing a framework for how public services are delivered and how the council serves its residents.

You can find more details about the Constitution meeting here.

This week in Southwark:

Children in Care Face Heightened Risks as Council Tackles Substance Misuse and Support Gaps

The Corporate Parenting Committee met on Wednesday 22 April 2026 to address critical issues impacting the welfare and development of children in the council's care. A significant concern highlighted was the persistent over-representation of children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) among those suspended from school, and a worrying rise in absenteeism among girls. These issues can have a profound impact on a child's educational attainment and future life chances, particularly for those already facing additional challenges.

The committee reviewed a report on the Virtual School's findings regarding suspensions, exclusions, and persistent absence. While suspension rates for Southwark Children Looked After (CLA) are showing a downward trend, with no permanent exclusions in the 2024-2025 academic year, the report flagged a narrowing gender gap in suspensions and a concerning increase in absenteeism among girls. The Virtual School's response includes daily attendance monitoring and tailored support for emotionally based non-school attendance (EBSNA), aiming to keep children engaged and in education.

Furthermore, the committee discussed developments in the Kinship Local Offer, a framework designed to provide needs-led support for kinship carers. Launched in September 2025, this initiative aims to enhance support across areas like therapeutic services, training, financial assistance, and education. The plan details actions to improve communication and ensure kinship carers are fully aware of available resources, a crucial step in supporting families who step in to care for children.

An update on the Corporate Parenting Strategy 2026-2030, developed in collaboration with care-experienced children and young people, was also presented. This strategy aims to build on previous efforts and ensure sustained improvements in the life chances of looked-after children and care leavers. The committee also reviewed its work plan for the upcoming year, ensuring ongoing focus on these vital areas.

You can find more details about the Corporate Parenting Committee meeting here.

Local Businesses Under Scrutiny as Licensing Sub-Committee Considers Multiple Applications

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Thursday 23 April 2026 to consider two applications for premises licences that could significantly impact local communities. These applications, for Funicular Productions and Sotto, both located in SE1, attracted numerous representations from residents and responsible authorities, highlighting concerns about noise, public nuisance, and public safety.

Funicular Productions: Residents Raise Alarm Over Late-Night Operations

An application for a premises licence for Funicular Productions at Units 3 & 4, Crucifix Lane, London SE1 3JW, was met with ten objections from local residents. Concerns centred on potential nuisance and disturbance from proposed operating hours extending to midnight on Sundays to Thursdays and 1 am on Fridays and Saturdays. Residents voiced worries about increased taxi traffic, congregating customers, and the overall impact on the neighbourhood's peace. The applicant proposed control measures including CCTV, an incident log, and a dispersal policy to mitigate these concerns.

Sotto: Police and Residents Call for Stricter Conditions

Sotto at 4 Tanner Street, London SE1 3LD, faced representations from both the Police and Trading Standards, alongside six residents. The Police requested a raft of additional conditions to prevent crime and disorder, including enhanced CCTV and staff training. Trading Standards sought conditions to protect children from harm, such as a robust Challenge 25 policy. Residents' concerns focused on potential disturbance from customers, noise, and deliveries, particularly given the premises' proximity to residential addresses. The applicant's proposed measures included staff training and CCTV, aiming to ensure a safe and orderly environment.

The decisions made by the sub-committee will directly influence the operating hours and potential impact of these establishments on the local environment and the wellbeing of nearby residents.

You can find more details about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting here.

This week in Southwark:

Canterbury Arms Licence Application Sparks Renewed Concerns Over Past Tragedies and Public Safety

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Thursday 16 April 2026 to consider a contentious application for a new premises licence for the Canterbury Arms public house, located at 2-4 Maddock Way, London SE17 3NH. The application, brought by Maurice Collins and Aidan Collins, sought to operate the premises as a public house with proposed hours for the sale of alcohol from 10:00 to 23:00 daily. However, the meeting agenda was dominated by significant objections from the Metropolitan Police, Southwark Council's Trading Standards, and five local residents, all raising serious concerns about the potential impact on licensing objectives, particularly in light of the premises' recent history.

The Metropolitan Police's objection centred on the requested hours exceeding those recommended in the Southwark Statement of Licensing Policy and the potential for increased crime and disorder. Their concerns are amplified by the fact that the premises recently underwent a summary review of its licence following a fatal incident, which ultimately led to the revocation of the previous licence. This history casts a long shadow over the current application, with residents echoing fears of a return to past problems.

Local residents submitted five objections, detailing a history of alleged anti-social behaviour, violence, drug dealing, and noise nuisance stemming from the premises' prior operation. Specific complaints included loud amplified music, karaoke, customers congregating outside, and the use of glassware. The proposed early start time for alcohol sales at 10:00 am was also a point of contention for those living nearby.

Southwark Council's Trading Standards initially raised concerns about protecting children from harm, but these were withdrawn after the applicant agreed to implement robust age verification measures, including a Challenge 25 policy and staff training. While these conditions aim to mitigate risks, the overriding concerns about the premises' past and its potential impact on the community remain at the forefront of discussions. The sub-committee's decision will have a direct bearing on the safety and peace of mind for residents in the vicinity.

You can find more details about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting here.

This week in Southwark:

Late-Night Food Venues Face Scrutiny Over Extended Hours and Potential Nuisance

Southwark Council's Licensing Sub-Committee is set to consider applications to extend operating hours for two popular food establishments, German Doner Kebab and Subway. The decisions could have a significant impact on residents, particularly concerning noise, public safety, and the overall character of the affected neighbourhoods.

German Doner Kebab: Concerns Over Cumulative Impact in Borough High Street

The committee will review an application from West London Foods Ltd to extend the late-night refreshment and opening hours for German Doner Kebab at 222-224 Borough High Street, London, SE1 1JX. The proposal seeks to push late-night refreshment hours from 1 am to 2 am on Sundays to Thursdays, and from 2 am to 3 am on Fridays and Saturdays.

However, the council's licensing unit and environmental protection team have raised objections, stating that the proposed hours exceed the recommendations in the council's Statement of Licensing Policy (SoLP) for premises in this area. Councillor David Watson, the local ward councillor, has also objected, citing concerns about the Borough and Bankside Cumulative Impact Area (CIA). This CIA is designed to prevent further negative impacts on crime and disorder, public nuisance, and public safety. The report notes that the SoLP recommends closing times of midnight for restaurants and cafes from Sunday to Thursday, and 1 am on Fridays and Saturdays. The Environmental Protection Team also flagged potential breaches of planning permission regarding operating hours.

The outcome of this application will determine whether German Doner Kebab can operate later, potentially increasing noise and activity in an area already designated as having a high concentration of licensed premises.

Subway on Denmark Hill: Balancing Resident Needs with Late-Night Access

The sub-committee will also consider an application from Thiyana Limited to extend operating hours for Subway at 76 – 78 Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8RZ. The proposed variation would extend late-night refreshment hours from midnight to 1:30 am on Mondays to Wednesdays, and from 1 am to 2:30 am on Thursdays to Sundays.

The council's licensing unit has objected, arguing that the proposed hours exceed the SoLP recommendations for takeaways, which suggest closing times of midnight from Sunday to Thursday and 1 am on Fridays and Saturdays. However, unlike the Borough High Street application, the Camberwell CIA does not apply to takeaways.

In contrast, a local resident has supported the application, highlighting the benefit of extended hours for shift workers and essential workers. This resident stated their experience of the premises being well-managed and clean. The report indicates that Subway operates as a takeaway and does not sell alcohol. This application presents a balancing act between managing potential nuisance and providing essential services for those working unsociable hours.

Both applications fall under the Licensing Act 2003, which requires licensing authorities to promote four key objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of nuisance, and the protection of children from harm. The council's Statement of Licensing Policy (SoLP)[^1] provides guidance on how these objectives are to be promoted.

You can find more details about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting here.

Student Accommodation and Playground Upgrades on the Agenda for Planning Committee

The Planning Committee (Major Applications) B met on Monday 23 March 2026 to discuss significant developments, including a proposal for student accommodation and the release of funds for vital playground improvements.

Student Housing and Commercial Space Proposed for Ilderton Road

A key item was the application for full planning permission at 301-303 Ilderton Road, London, SE15 1NW. The proposal includes the demolition of existing buildings and the construction of a 19-storey building to provide 241 bedspaces for purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) and flexible commercial floorspace at ground level.

The site is located within the Old Kent Road Opportunity Area, and the development aims to optimise brownfield land use. A notable aspect of the application is the proposed payment of £10,965,500 towards affordable housing, as on-site provision was deemed unfeasible due to site constraints. The design aims to reflect the area's industrial heritage. The committee considered impacts on daylight, sunlight, transport, and the environment. The provision of student accommodation can impact local housing markets and infrastructure, and the committee's decision will shape the future of this part of the Old Kent Road Opportunity Area.

Funds Released for Bethwin Road Adventure Playground

The committee was also set to consider the release of £242,117.18 from Section 106 agreements to fund much-needed improvements at Bethwin Road Adventure Playground. The existing play equipment was identified as a risk due to instability and rot, with some items already closed off.

The proposed improvements, guided by a Masterplan, aim to create an inclusive, accessible, and safe play space. This aligns with the Southwark Council Delivery Plan 2022–26, which prioritises high-quality local facilities and green spaces. The funds will contribute to refurbishing existing equipment and installing new adventure play features, such as a Tree Walk and a tree house. These improvements are crucial for the wellbeing of local children, providing them with a safe and stimulating environment for physical activity and social development.

Details on other planning applications, including those for LSE Bankside House and the London College of Printing and Graphic Art at Elephant and Castle, were listed as To Follow and were not available in the provided report pack.

You can find more details about the Planning Committee (Major Applications) B meeting here.

Other Matters

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Thursday 26 March 2026. The committee considered applications for premises licences for Oscar's Barbershop in Camberwell Road and Clubhouse in Dulwich Village. Both applications involved representations from responsible authorities and other persons, raising concerns about potential increases in alcohol-fuelled anti-social behaviour and public nuisance. The committee's decisions will impact the licensing landscape in these areas.

You can find more details about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting here.