The Licensing Sub-Committee of Kingston upon Thames Council met on Monday 8 April 2024 to consider an application for a new premises licence for Stir 777, located at 48 High Street, Kingston. The committee granted the application, subject to a number of conditions, allowing for extended hours for regulated entertainment and the sale of alcohol.

Application for a New Premises Licence for Stir 777

The Licensing Sub-Committee granted a new premises licence for Stir 777, located at 48 High Street, Kingston, subject to conditions. The application sought to authorise the provision of regulated entertainment, including recorded music and dance, from Monday to Thursday between 22:00 and 03:00, and Friday to Saturday from 22:00 to 05:00. It also sought to permit the retail sale of alcohol for consumption on the premises during similar hours, specifically Monday to Thursday from 22:00 to 02:30, and Friday to Saturday from 22:00 to 04:30.

The committee considered representations from residents, with two objections citing concerns related to the prevention of crime and disorder and the prevention of public nuisance, particularly regarding noise. However, the committee also noted four representations in support of the application. The Metropolitan Police and Environmental Health had initially raised concerns regarding the protection of children from harm, but these were addressed through amendments to the applicant's operating schedule.

The applicant, Stir 777 Limited, explained that the new licence would consolidate existing permissions and sought an additional hour on Friday and Saturday nights. They highlighted a reduction in the premises' capacity from 220 to 65 people, a measure agreed with the police to prevent the venue from being viable as a nightclub for a new operator. The applicant also agreed to a condition requested by the Metropolitan Police to only sell beers, lagers, and ciders in cans or bottles, not on tap.

In making their decision, the Licensing Sub-Committee considered the Council's Statement of Licensing Policy and guidance issued by the Secretary of State under the Licensing Act 2003¹. They noted that while the extended hours could potentially be disruptive, there had been no substantiated complaints regarding noise or other issues from the premises. The reduced capacity was also seen as a factor in mitigating potential cumulative impact. The committee also acknowledged that any future issues could lead to a review of the premises licence.

The granted licence includes a number of conditions derived from the applicant's operating schedule, covering areas such as:

• Prevention of Crime and Disorder: Including a minimum of two SIA-licensed door supervisors on duty, active monitoring of queues, CCTV operation, and restrictions on alcohol sales to cans or bottles.
• Public Safety: A maximum capacity of 65 persons, with customers counted in and out, and requirements for emergency exits and risk assessments.
• Prevention of Public Nuisance: A noise management plan, soundproofing to prevent breakout, regular external noise checks, a noise-limiting device for amplified sound, and measures to promote quiet dispersal of patrons.
• Protection of Children from Harm: A strict policy of no under-18s on the premises, implementation of a Challenge 25 age verification scheme, and comprehensive staff training on underage sales prevention.

The committee decided to grant the application with these conditions, finding them appropriate and proportionate to promote the licensing objectives.