The Licensing Sub-Committee of Kingston upon Thames Council granted a temporary street trading licence for the sale of Christmas trees on King Charles Road, Surbiton. The committee also confirmed the minutes of the previous meeting.

Temporary Street Trading Licence for Christmas Trees Granted

The Licensing Sub-Committee granted a temporary street trading licence to Coffee on the Corner Surbiton LTD for the sale of Christmas trees on King Charles Road, Surbiton. The licence is valid from 27 November to 15 December 2026, with trading hours from 7 am to 5 pm daily. The proposed pitch is located on the grass between the pavement and the fence of the Alexandra Recreation Playground.

The application was made by Kyle Hyams, owner of Coffee on the Corner Surbiton LTD. Mr. Hyams explained that he had been selling Christmas trees at this location since 2020, initially to generate footfall for his coffee shop after the introduction of Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) in the area. He highlighted the community benefits of the Christmas tree sales, including charitable donations and the creation of a local tradition. He also noted that the business had previously obtained planning permission for this activity.

Two objections were received from members of the public. One objector raised concerns about pedestrian and cyclist safety, citing reduced space due to recent landscaping and the positioning of delivery vans. They also mentioned a previous issue with Christmas lights being strung across the road, which they deemed a hazard. The second objector expressed concerns about the appropriateness of trading overlooking a children's recreational area and suggested that businesses should utilise their own property boundaries rather than public space. They also referenced the issue of Christmas lights being strung across the road and congestion caused by a side service window at the coffee shop.

Marcella Basso, the licensing officer, presented the report, confirming that no objections were received from statutory consultees. She outlined the council's street trading policy and the relevant legislation, the London Local Authorities Act 1990.

During the hearing, councillors asked Mr. Hyams about the specific area of trading, how the licence would specify the pitch, and the storage of trees. Mr. Hyams confirmed that a Luton van was used for storage and that he had recently acquired premises with off-street parking for this purpose. He also clarified that he would not be storing trees in the van overnight where it was parked. He assured the committee that lighting would not be run on public property this year.

The subcommittee deliberated and ultimately decided to grant the application. Councillor Mark Bain, Chair of the Licensing Sub-Committee, announced the decision, stating that a full decision notice with reasons would be provided within five working days.

Confirmation of Previous Minutes

The subcommittee confirmed that the minutes of the meeting held on 22 June 2026 were a correct record. No discussion or debate was recorded on this item.