This week in Westminster:

Late-Night Venues in Soho and Paddington Face Licensing Decisions

Westminster's Licensing Sub-Committees are considering applications that could significantly alter the late-night landscape of the borough. Decisions this week involve new premises licence applications for a venue in Soho and a multi-level establishment in Paddington Square, both raising concerns among residents and authorities about public nuisance and safety.

Central Park Hotel Seeks Licence Variation for Rooftop Terrace

The Licensing Sub-Committee (3) met on Thursday 3 September 2026 to consider a variation to the premises licence for the Central Park Hotel, 49-67 Queensborough Terrace, London W2 3SY. The hotel applied to add its rooftop terrace to the licensed area, extend alcohol sales to core hours, and modify existing conditions.

The application sought to allow alcohol sales to align with core hours, which are the standard operating hours for licensed premises in Westminster. Crucially, it also aimed to add the rooftop terrace to the licensed area. However, the application proposed restrictions on the rooftop terrace's use between 10:00 pm and 7:00 am, and limited off-sales of alcohol to between 8:00 am and 10:30 pm on Sundays.

The South East Bayswater Residents' Association (SEBRA) objected to the application, raising concerns about potential noise and public nuisance from the rooftop terrace, particularly given its proximity to residential properties. They also opposed the removal of existing conditions and the request for off-sales. SEBRA proposed additional conditions to manage noise and ensure patrons on the terrace were seated.

The committee was advised to consider the City of Westminster Statement of Licensing Policy 2021, which guides licensing decisions. Policies HRS1 (core hours) and HOT1 (hotels) were highlighted as particularly relevant. The council's duty under the Equality Act 2010 to promote equality was also a key consideration.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee (3) meeting here

Two New Restaurants Face Scrutiny Over Late-Night Hours and Impact

The Licensing Sub-Committee (4) met on Wednesday 2 September 2026 to consider new premises licence applications for two restaurants, one in Bayswater and another in Covent Garden. Both applications raised concerns from residents and authorities regarding public nuisance, public safety, and the potential impact on areas already experiencing high levels of activity.

94 Bishop's Bridge Road: Concerns Over Late-Night Refreshment and Previous Licence Issues

The first application was for a restaurant at 94 Bishop's Bridge Road, London W2 5AA. The applicant, The Italian Lounge Ltd, sought to provide late-night refreshment and sell alcohol until 2:00 am daily.

The Environmental Health Service objected, stating that the requested hours for late-night refreshment could lead to increased public nuisance and negatively impact public safety. They proposed conditions such as the premises operating strictly as a restaurant with alcohol served only to seated customers having substantial meals, and all external doors and windows remaining closed after 9:00 pm.

The Metropolitan Police Service also objected, citing the premises' recent licence revocation in November 2025 due to persistent breaches and trading after terminal hours. They expressed concern that the proposed conditions were insufficient to prevent crime and disorder and sought assurances about the applicant's connection to the previous operator.

Local residents' associations, the South East Bayswater Residents' Association (SEBRA) and the Bayswater Residents' Association (BRA), objected on grounds of preventing public nuisance and public safety. They highlighted the premises' location within the Queensway/Bayswater Special Consideration Zone, surrounded by residential buildings, and the history of licence issues. They requested that any granted hours should not exceed Westminster's 'Core Hours' and supported the imposition of a model restaurant condition for the entire premises.

Relevant policies included SCZ1 (Special Consideration Zones), HRS1 (Core Hours), and RNT1 (Restaurants) from the City of Westminster's Statement of Licensing Policy.

Amorino Ice Cream Cafe: Concerns Over Late Hours in the West End Cumulative Impact Zone

The second application was for Amorino, an ice cream café at the Basement and Ground Floor, 7 Garrick Street, London WC2E 9AR. The applicant sought to provide late-night refreshment until 2:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays, and until 1:00 am on other nights.

The Metropolitan Police Service initially objected due to concerns about crime and disorder within the West End Cumulative Impact Zone (CIZ)[^1]. However, they withdrew their objection after mediation and a reduction in the applied-for hours. Environmental Health also raised concerns about potential public nuisance and impacts on public safety.

The Licensing Authority noted that the proposed hours for late-night refreshment fell outside Westminster's core hours for fast-food venues. They requested further information from the applicant regarding deliveries, hot food sales, and outdoor seating hours. A proposed condition was that licensable activities be ancillary to the main function of the premises as a cold food/ice cream parlour.

The Covent Garden Community Association (CGCA) objected, concerned that late operation could attract larger crowds, leading to noise and public nuisance. They requested conditions to manage queuing, noise, and litter, and crucially, that the primary use remain as an ice cream shop.

Relevant policies included CIP1 (Cumulative Impact Policy), HRS1 (Core Hours Policy), and FFP1 (Fast Food Premises Policy) from the City of Westminster's Statement of Licensing Policy.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee (4) meeting here

Council Constitution Under Review Amidst New Planning Regulations

The General Purposes Committee met on Tuesday 1 September 2026 to discuss proposed changes to the council's constitution. These changes are largely driven by new government regulations impacting planning decisions and aim to ensure the council's governance remains compliant and effective.

Adapting to National Planning Delegation Rules

A key focus of the meeting was the Town and Country Planning (Discharge of Local Planning Authority Functions) (England) Regulations 2026, which are set to come into effect on 31 October 2026. These regulations introduce a mandatory national scheme for delegating planning functions, dictating which applications can be decided by officers and which must go to a committee.

The proposed constitutional changes include amendments to the Terms of Reference for the Strategic Planning Committee and Planning Sub-Committees, as well as updates to the Scheme of Delegations to Officers. These adjustments are necessary to align with the new national framework, which will remove certain referral mechanisms, such as ward member call-in arrangements. This means that the process for how planning applications are handled will change, potentially affecting how local input is considered.

Broader Constitutional Review Underway

Beyond the specific planning regulations, the committee also discussed a wider, structured review of the council's constitution. This ongoing review aims to ensure the constitution remains legally compliant, clear, and accessible, reflecting current governance requirements. The process, which began with officer and member engagement, is expected to lead to significant changes being presented to Full Council in March 2027. The council is legally obliged by Section 9P of the Local Government Act 2000 to maintain an up-to-date constitution.

The meeting also addressed administrative changes, such as reflecting the introduction of a Chief Operating Officer role and updating officer delegations. These are organisational adjustments to ensure the constitution accurately represents current council structures. The committee was asked to recommend these proposed changes to Full Council for approval.

Link to the General Purposes Committee meeting here

Audit and Performance Committee Reviews Financial Health and Procurement

The Audit and Performance Committee met on Thursday 3 September 2026 to scrutinise the council's financial performance, capital receipts, and procurement activities. The discussions provided insight into the council's financial standing and its approach to managing contracts and spending.

Q1 Financial Performance Highlights Projected Overspend

The committee received a report on the council's financial performance for the first quarter of the 2026/27 financial year. The projected outturn for the General Fund indicated an anticipated overspend, primarily attributed to higher-cost placements in children's services and reduced investment income. The Housing Revenue Account (HRA) was also forecast to be in deficit. The report detailed capital programme forecasts and the status of savings targets, alongside the projected reserve balance.

Capital Receipts and Procurement Updates

An overview of the council's capital receipts, which are vital for funding the capital programme, was presented. The projected £881 million in capital receipts over 15 years, generated from asset disposals and loan repayments, was discussed. The committee also reviewed the annual report on procurement activity for 2025/26, highlighting progress in major procurements, SME participation, and the implementation of the new Procurement Code. A sixth annual Contract and Supplier Performance Report for 2025/26 was also presented, detailing contract management, supplier performance, and risk management strategies.

Link to the Audit and Performance Committee meeting here

Appointments Sub-Committee Considers Director of People and Culture Role

The Appointments Sub-Committee met on Friday 4 September 2026 to discuss a key senior appointment within the council.

Appointment to Director of People and Culture Role

The primary item on the agenda was the appointment to the significant role of Director of People and Culture. The report pack provided detailed information for this appointment, with discussions held in private session due to the confidential nature of candidate information, as permitted under the Local Government Act 1972. This role is crucial for overseeing human resources and cultural initiatives within the council.

Link to the Appointments Sub-Committee meeting here

Other Matters

The Licensing Sub-Committee (1) met on Wednesday 2 September 2026. Link to the meeting here.

The Planning Sub-Committee (3) met on Tuesday 1 September 2026. Link to the meeting here.

This week in Westminster:

Late-Night Venues in Edgware Road and Paddington Face Scrutiny

Westminster's Licensing Sub-Committees are considering applications that could significantly alter the late-night landscape of the borough. Decisions this week involve new premises licence applications for a venue in Edgware Road and a multi-level establishment in Paddington Square, both raising concerns among residents and authorities about public nuisance and safety.

The Food District Seeks Late-Night Refreshment and Alcohol Sales

The Licensing Sub-Committee (2) met on Thursday 27 August 2026 to consider a new premises licence application for The Food District, a food court located at 145-147 Edgware Road, London, W2 2HR. The application sought authorisation for late-night refreshment and the supply of alcohol.

Environmental Health raised concerns that the requested hours for late-night refreshment, extending beyond the council's core hours, could lead to an increase in public nuisance and adversely impact public safety. The Planning Team objected, stating that the use of the premises as a food court constituted a sui generis use[^1] for which planning permission was required, and that a planning enforcement investigation had been opened regarding the unlawful use of the site.

Numerous residents submitted objections, primarily citing concerns about offensive cooking odours, noise, potential anti-social behaviour associated with late opening hours, and fire safety concerns. The applicant's response highlighted that their extraction and ventilation system met legal requirements.

The Heron Public House Seeks Extended Alcohol Sales Hours

A variation to the premises licence for The Heron Public House, located at Norfolk Corner, London, W2 2DN, was also scheduled for discussion. The application sought to extend the terminal hour for alcohol sales from 11:00 pm to midnight on Monday to Saturday, and from 10:30 pm to 11:30 pm on Sundays.

The Metropolitan Police Service initially objected, citing concerns about potential increases in intoxication and pressure on an area already saturated with late-night premises. However, they later withdrew their representation after agreeing on additional conditions with the applicant. Environmental Health suggested that the extension might increase public nuisance and impact public safety. The South East Bayswater Residents' Association (SEBRA) and other residents objected on the grounds of potential public nuisance, noise from the pub and its beer garden, and pungent odours from the basement restaurant. Residents also expressed concerns about a thin end of the wedge scenario, fearing further applications and a general deterioration of the area. The applicant highlighted existing measures to manage noise and dispersal.

Pearl at The Beaumont Mayfair Seeks New Premises Licence

The committee was to consider a new premises licence application for Pearl, a restaurant and terrace associated with The Beaumont Mayfair, located on Brown Hart Gardens, London, W1K 8UH. The application sought authorisation for the sale of alcohol, late-night refreshment, and the playing of recorded music.

Environmental Health noted potential increases in public nuisance and impacts on public safety. Several residents and residents' associations objected, primarily concerned about noise disturbance from the outdoor terrace and the impact on the character of Brown Hart Gardens, which they described as a valued public space. Concerns were also raised about deliveries, servicing, waste collection noise, and potential anti-social behaviour. The applicant stated that measures would be in place to manage noise and customer behaviour.

8 Loxton Walk Application for New Restaurant Licence

A new premises licence application was scheduled for 8 Loxton Walk, London, W1U 8AZ, intended to operate as a restaurant. The application sought authorisation for the sale of alcohol (on and off-sales), late-night refreshment, and the playing of recorded music.

Environmental Health cited potential increases in public nuisance and impacts on public safety. The Metropolitan Police Service also objected, expressing concerns about the prevention of crime and disorder. Marylebone Councillors objected to parts of the application, specifically requesting reduced hours for alcohol sales on the terrace and earlier closure of doors and windows, citing proximity to residential properties. The applicant had made amendments during the consultation process, reducing the requested timings for alcohol sales and opening hours.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee (2) meeting here

Staff Appeals Sub-Committee Considers Former Employee's Appeal

The Staff Appeals Sub-Committee met on Tuesday 25 August 2026 to consider an appeal lodged by a former employee of the council. The meeting was also set to address administrative matters including membership and declarations of interest.

Appeal of a Former Employee

The main focus of the meeting was the consideration of an appeal lodged by a former employee. The report pack indicated that this item would be presented in Part 2 of the meeting, meaning it was likely to involve confidential information. The specific details of the appeal, including the grounds for the appeal and any supporting documentation, were contained within exempt reports, as per the Local Government Act 1972[^2]. The extensive documentation for this item suggests a comprehensive review was anticipated.

Administrative Matters

In addition to the substantive appeal, the committee addressed routine administrative items, including confirming the membership of the sub-committee and addressing any declarations of interest from members. These are standard procedures for such meetings to ensure transparency and adherence to governance protocols.

Link to the Staff Appeals Sub-Committee meeting here

Other Matters

The Licensing Sub-Committee (1) met on Thursday 27 August 2026. Link to the meeting here.

This week in Westminster:

Nightlife and Development Decisions: Licensing and Planning Committees Convene

Westminster's committees have been busy this week, with significant decisions being made on licensing applications that could shape the borough's nightlife and planning applications that will alter its physical landscape. The Licensing Sub-Committee (1) met on Monday 17 August 2026 to consider a review of a premises licence for a high-profile venue, while the Planning Sub-Committee (1) met on Tuesday 18 August 2026 to discuss a major redevelopment proposal in a prestigious square.

Licence Review for Mistress of Mayfair Amidst Serious Crime Allegations

The Licensing Sub-Committee (1) convened on Monday 17 August 2026 to consider a critical review of the premises licence for Mistress of Mayfair, located at 48-49 St James's Street, London SW1A 1JT. This review was triggered by an interim measures application from the Metropolitan Police Service following a serious assault at the venue on 10 August 2026.

The police report detailed a violent incident where a patron sustained a slash wound to the neck, leading to an arrest and charges of attempted murder. The report highlighted significant breaches of the premises' licence conditions, including failures in ID scanning and inadequate management of the incident scene. The police sought interim steps to address the immediate risks, which could include modifying licence conditions, suspending alcohol sales, removing the designated premises supervisor, or even suspending the licence entirely.

The report noted that the premises licence holder had not submitted their representations in time for the hearing due to the tight statutory deadlines for interim reviews. This situation underscores the urgency with which the committee had to address the safety concerns. The committee was advised to consider the City of Westminster's Statement of Licensing Policy 2021[^3] and guidance from the Secretary of State under the Licensing Act 2003[^1]. This case highlights the direct impact of licensing decisions on public safety, particularly in venues where serious crime has occurred.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee (1) meeting here

St James's Square Redevelopment: Balancing Heritage and Modernisation

The Planning Sub-Committee (1) met on Tuesday 18 August 2026 to consider a significant planning application and listed building consent for alterations and remodelling at 11-12 St James's Square, London, SW1Y 4LB. The proposal, intended to create modern office accommodation for the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) as its London headquarters, involves extensive work on Grade II* and Grade II listed buildings.

The plans include the partial removal of non-heritage additions, remodelling of a 1980s rear extension, and the addition of terraces and a roof garden. A key aspect of the proposal is a retrofit-first approach, aiming to retain a substantial portion of the existing structure to reduce embodied carbon and demolition waste. The development is expected to achieve a BREEAM Excellent rating for environmental sustainability.

However, the application has faced objections from local amenity societies, residents, and businesses, raising concerns about heritage impact, design, amenity, servicing, and construction. The report acknowledged that while the contemporary design of the rebuilt rear extension presented concerns, the proposals were considered an improvement on the existing building. The report suggested that any less than substantial harm to the listed buildings would be outweighed by the heritage and wider public benefits.

Concerns about residential amenity included potential loss of daylight and sunlight, overlooking, and noise. Mitigation measures such as balustrades, planting, and restrictions on terrace use were proposed. The application also addressed transportation, with a reduction in car parking and an increase in cycle parking. The committee was to recommend granting conditional permission, subject to a Section 106 legal agreement[^4] to secure contributions and measures, including a financial contribution to the Council's Carbon Offset Fund. This decision reflects the council's ongoing challenge to balance the need for modern development with the preservation of its historic environment.

Link to the Planning Sub-Committee (1) meeting here

Licensing Applications for Multiple Venues Considered

The Licensing Sub-Committee (1) also met on Thursday 20 August 2026 to consider three separate licensing applications, each with potential implications for local communities.

52 Grosvenor Square: New Licence for Private Hire Events

The committee reviewed a new premises licence application for 52 Grosvenor Square, London, W1K 2DA, submitted by London Wildlife Limited. The application proposed the supply of alcohol for consumption on the premises during private hire events, alongside live music, recorded music, and dance performances. While Environmental Health initially raised concerns about public nuisance and safety, these were withdrawn after additional conditions were agreed. However, objections from local residents and other interested parties persisted, focusing on notification processes, noise management, and the potential impact on the residential character of Grosvenor Square.

50 Queensway: Restaurant Licence with Conditions

A new premises licence was also considered for 50 Queensway, London W2 3RY, sought by Parashkthy Food Ltd, to operate as a restaurant with alcohol sales. The Metropolitan Police and Environmental Health initially raised objections concerning crime prevention and public nuisance, respectively. These were withdrawn after the applicant agreed to stringent conditions, including operating strictly as a restaurant with alcohol ancillary to meals and robust noise and waste management measures. Objections from the South East Bayswater Residents' Association (SEBRA) focused on public nuisance and requested further restrictions.

3-4 Coventry Street: Shadow Licence for Casino Operations

Finally, the committee reviewed an application for a shadow licence for 3 - 4 Coventry Street, London, W1D 6BL, intended to mirror the licence of the Rialto Casino Piccadilly. The application sought late-night refreshment and alcohol sales hours consistent with the existing casino operations. The Licensing Authority raised concerns about the application's interaction with the primary licence, particularly regarding when the shadow licence would become active. This highlights the complexities of licensing in areas with established entertainment venues and the need for clear operational frameworks.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee (1) meeting here

Other Matters

The Strategic Planning Committee met on Tuesday 18 August 2026. Link to the meeting here.

This week in Westminster:

Late-Night Venues in Soho and Paddington Face Licensing Decisions

Westminster's Licensing Sub-Committees are considering applications that could significantly alter the late-night landscape of the borough. Decisions this week involve new premises licence applications for a venue in Soho and a multi-level establishment in Paddington Square, both raising concerns among residents and authorities about public nuisance and safety.

Amorino Seeks Late-Night Hours in West End Cumulative Impact Zone

The Licensing Sub-Committee (2) met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider a new premises licence application for Amorino, an ice cream café located at 41 Old Compton Street, London, W1D 6HF. The applicant sought permission for late-night refreshment from 11:00 pm to 3:00 am, Monday to Sunday, with the premises open to the public from 10:00 am to 3:00 am daily.

This application is particularly sensitive as it falls within the West End Cumulative Impact Zone (CIZ)[^1]. This area is designated due to a high concentration of licensed premises and a significantly higher rate of crime and disorder. Westminster's Statement of Licensing Policy[^2] generally presumes against applications that operate outside core hours in such zones, unless exceptional circumstances can be proven.

Representations were received from the Licensing Authority, Environmental Health, and the Metropolitan Police, all citing concerns related to the promotion of the licensing objectives, particularly public nuisance and the prevention of crime and disorder. These concerns were largely due to the premises being situated within the West End Cumulative Impact Zone and the requested hours exceeding the council's core hours policy. The Soho Society also lodged an objection, echoing concerns about cumulative impact and requesting a reduction in the sought hours.

The report pack indicated that the Licensing Authority had proposed several conditions, including that licensable activities be ancillary to the main function of an ice cream café and that outdoor tables and chairs be removed by 11:00 pm on weekdays and 10:00 pm on Sundays. The Metropolitan Police had also submitted proposed conditions related to CCTV, staff training, and incident logging. The Soho Society requested a condition that the licensable activities be ancillary to the main function of the premises as an ice cream shop.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee (2) meeting here

Torino at Paddington Square Faces Resident Objections Over Late Hours

The committee was also scheduled to consider a new premises licence for Torino, a multi-level venue at 1 Paddington Square, Westminster, London, W2 1DL. The applicant, Torino London Limited, proposed to operate a café bistro on the ground floor, a restaurant on the first floor, and a rooftop bar on the second floor. The application sought permission for the sale of alcohol for consumption both on and off the premises from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm, Monday to Sunday, with extended hours until 1:00 am on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve. The premises were to be open to the public from 6:00 am to 11:30 pm daily.

The Environmental Health Service raised concerns about potential increases in public nuisance and impacts on public safety, noting that additional conditions might be required following a site visit. The Metropolitan Police initially objected to the application, citing concerns about undermining the licensing objective of preventing crime and disorder, particularly regarding the proposed hours for Sunday alcohol sales which exceeded the council's core hours for restaurants and bars. However, the police later withdrew their representation following an agreement on conditions.

The South East Bayswater Residents' Association (SEBRA) and the Paddington Waterways Maida Vale Society (PWMVS) both submitted objections, primarily focusing on the prevention of public nuisance. They requested several additional conditions, including a model restaurant condition for all areas of the premises, restrictions on smells and noise, limitations on taking drinks outside, and no use of the roof terrace as a smoking area. They also sought to restrict off sales and deliveries, and to specify the maximum number of customers allowed on the roof terrace.

The report pack detailed that the applicant had proposed various conditions, including those related to CCTV, age verification, and an incident log. The Metropolitan Police and the applicant had agreed on alternative wording for some conditions. The applicant's supporting documents described Torino as a contemporary, multi-layered hospitality space designed to be experience-led and not a drinking-led venue, aiming to complement its surroundings without adding to cumulative impact.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee (2) meeting here

Other Matters

The Licensing Sub-Committee (1) met on Thursday 13 August 2026. Link to the meeting here.