The Licensing Sub-Committee of Southwark Council granted a premises licence for Feeling Food, located at 40 Peckham Rye, London SE15 4JR, allowing the sale of alcohol for consumption off the premises between 9:00 am and 10:00 pm daily. The sub-committee also approved the opening hours for the premises to align with these times.

Feeling Food Premises Licence Application

The sub-committee considered an application for a premises licence for Feeling Food, a delicatessen specialising in Spanish food, at 40 Peckham Rye, London SE15 4JR. The applicant, Al Andalus Spanish Food Limited, represented by Manuel Rocha, sought permission to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises.

Manuel Rocha explained that alcohol sales would be ancillary to the main food business and that the proposed retail price of around £15-£20 for a bottle of wine would deter street drinking. He also confirmed that Feeling Food would not sell single cans of beer or lagers and ciders above 6.5% ABV. Mr. Rocha committed to continuing to work with local residents and Responsible Authorities.

Representations were made by two local residents. One objector, who also owned a competing business, expressed concerns about the proliferation of off-licences in the area and the potential for Feeling Food to change its business model in the future. This objector was informed that competition is not a relevant licensing consideration. Another resident formally withdrew their objections after conditions were agreed with the Metropolitan Police Service. A third objector, who did not attend the meeting, had also submitted written objections.

The sub-committee noted that all representations from the Metropolitan Police Service had been withdrawn following conciliation and the agreement of specific conditions. These agreed conditions included:

• No alcohol to be stored or displayed within 2 metres of the entrance/exit unless behind the staff counter.
• No beers, ciders, or lagers in single cans, bottles, or multi-packs with an ABV of above 6.5% will be displayed, sold, or offered for sale from the premises.

The sub-committee was satisfied that Feeling Food did not fall within the Peckham Saturation Zone, as defined in the Council's Statement of Licensing Policy 2019-2021¹. They also acknowledged that two local delicatessens had recently closed, indicating a potential need for such a business in the area.

The sub-committee was mindful of the council's declaration of a Climate Emergency and encouraged Feeling Food to refrain from using single-use plastics, a commitment Mr. Rocha agreed to.

The decision to grant the licence was made in consideration of the four licensing objectives² and deemed appropriate and proportionate. The applicant and objectors have rights to appeal the decision.