The Licensing Sub-Committee (4) of Westminster Council met on Thursday 25 April 2024 to consider three applications for new premises licences. Two applications, for fan meeting points at Victoria Embankment Gardens and Hyde Park, were refused. The third application, for an open space at Trafalgar Square, was granted with conditions.

Trafalgar Square Open Space Licence Granted with Conditions

The Licensing Sub-Committee granted a new premises licence for an open space at Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DS, to the Greater London Authority (GLA). The application sought to increase the licensable area to include the North Terrace, increase the number of major events from 10 to 15 per annum, and increase the number of events where alcohol could be sold from 10 to 20 per annum.

The application was met with several representations from interested parties, including LW Theatres Group Ltd and local residents, who raised concerns about potential increases in public nuisance, crime and disorder, and public safety. Dr Philip Hadfield, an independent licensing consultant, provided a report highlighting concerns about the location's proximity to the West End Cumulative Impact Area and the potential for dispersal of large crowds into already pressured transport hubs and licensed premises. Specific concerns were raised about the suitability of Trafalgar Square for alcohol-fuelled sporting events, with a request to condition the licence to prevent football screenings or fan zones, or at least prohibit alcohol sales at such events.

The GLA, represented by LS Events, responded to these concerns, highlighting their extensive experience in delivering major events and their commitment to working with relevant agencies to ensure safety. They stated that the proposed conditions were comprehensive and tailored to the location. They also clarified that the number of events and overall capacity had not increased from the existing licence, and that any events involving alcohol sales would be subject to strict management plans and police veto.

The Committee, after considering all evidence, decided to grant the licence but with specific conditions. Crucially, the licence was granted with a condition that licensable activities must be ancillary to the main functions of Trafalgar Square as a cultural/sightseeing attraction. Furthermore, the Committee specified that football-related events, including screenings or fan zones, would not be permitted under this licence. The sale of alcohol was also restricted to a maximum of 20 days per year, with the Metropolitan Police retaining the right to veto any such sales. The existing licence for the premises would also be surrendered.

Victoria Embankment Gardens Fan Meeting Point Refused

The application for a new premises licence for a UEFA 2024 Champions League Fan Meeting Point at Victoria Embankment Gardens, London WC2N 6ND, was refused. The application sought to allow regulated entertainment and the supply of alcohol for a single day event on 1 June 2024, with a capacity of up to 29,999 people.

Numerous representations were received from local residents, businesses, and theatre groups, including LW Theatres Group Ltd and the Corinthia Hotel London. Key concerns raised included the potential for significant public nuisance, crime and disorder, and public safety issues due to the large capacity and the nature of the event, particularly the sale of alcohol. The location's proximity to residential areas and transport hubs, as well as the potential for dispersal into the West End Cumulative Impact Area, were also highlighted as major concerns. Dr Philip Hadfield, an independent licensing consultant, provided a report detailing the risks associated with such an event in this location, noting that an alternative, more remote site would be preferable.

The Committee, having considered the evidence, including the history of disorder at similar events and the specific vulnerabilities of the Victoria Embankment location, decided to refuse the application. The refusal was based on the grounds that the application, as proposed, failed to adequately demonstrate how the licensing objectives, particularly the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, and prevention of public nuisance, would be promoted. The Committee also noted the applicant's inability to provide sufficient detail on crucial aspects of the plan, such as crowd management and dispersal.

Hyde Park Fan Meeting Point Granted with Conditions

The application for a new premises licence for a UEFA 2024 Champions League Fan Meeting Point at Hyde Park, London W2 2UH, was granted with conditions. The application sought permission for regulated entertainment and the supply of alcohol for a single day event on 1 June 2024, with a capacity of up to 19,999 people.

Representations were received from local residents and amenity groups, including the Hyde Park Estate Association. Concerns were raised about the number of events already held in Hyde Park, the potential for noise and public nuisance, and the impact on the park's amenity. Specific objections were made regarding the proposed 10 am start time for alcohol sales, with a compromise suggested for 11 am. Clarification was also sought on the types of regulated entertainment and sound levels for live music.

The applicant, LS Events, responded to these concerns, highlighting their experience in managing large events and their commitment to working with relevant agencies. They agreed to several conditions, including reducing alcohol sales to commence at 11 am and ensuring adequate stewarding and noise management. The Royal Parks also provided input on conditions related to park protection.

The Committee, after considering all representations and submissions, decided to grant the licence with a number of conditions. These included the mandatory conditions under the Licensing Act 2003, conditions consistent with the operating schedule, and specific conditions proposed by the applicant and agreed with the Royal Parks and other stakeholders. These conditions aimed to address concerns regarding noise, crowd management, waste management, and the protection of children. The Committee also noted that the applicant had agreed to a condition that the event must be part of an existing programme, which was not the case for this application, but ultimately granted the licence with the agreed conditions.