The Licensing Sub Committee B of Islington Council is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 4 August 2026. The main item on the agenda is a decision regarding a new premises licence application for Judges Food and Wine.

New Premises Licence for Judges Food and Wine

The committee is scheduled to consider an application for a new premises licence for Judges Food and Wine, located at 171-173 Hornsey Road, London, N7 8LT. The application seeks permission for the sale of alcohol from Monday to Sunday, between 08:00 and 22:00, with premises opening hours from Monday to Sunday, 08:00 to 23:00.

The report pack indicates that representations were received from the Metropolitan Police and one local resident. However, the Metropolitan Police representation has since been withdrawn as the applicant has agreed to incorporate their recommendations into the operating schedule. One of the local residents has also withdrawn their representation following discussions with the applicant.

The committee will need to consider the application in light of Islington's Licensing Policy, specifically Policy 3, which addresses the Holloway and Finsbury Park Cumulative Impact Area. This policy states there is a presumption of refusal unless the committee is satisfied that granting the licence will not have an adverse cumulative impact on the licensing objectives.

If the application is granted, it is proposed that it will be subject to conditions prepared by the Licensing Officer, consistent with the operating schedule, and any other conditions the committee deems appropriate to promote the four licensing objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm.

The applicant, represented by Amarpreet Singh and Jarpreet Singh of Judges Food and Wine Ltd, has proposed several amendments to their operating schedule to address concerns. These include restrictions on the sale of certain alcohol products, such as single cans and spirit miniatures, and a limit on the ABV of beer, lager, and cider sold. They have also agreed to enhanced CCTV coverage, the maintenance of an incident log, and a strict Challenge 25 policy for age-restricted sales. The applicant has also clarified that the business will be grocery-led, with a focus on South Asian spices and specialist ingredients, rather than being alcohol-led.

The report pack includes the application form, representations received, the applicant's response to representations, and suggested conditions for approval. The committee will also consider the procedure for hearing licensing applications under the Licensing Act 2003¹.