The Licensing Sub-Committee of Ealing Council granted a new premises licence for Majestic Wine Warehouse, located at 92-96 St Marys Road, Ealing, W5 5EX. The committee decided to grant the licence as applied for, despite objections from local residents.

New Premises Licence for Majestic Wine Warehouse

The Licensing Sub-Committee granted a new premises licence to Majestic Wine Warehouse, located at 92-96 St Marys Road, Ealing, W5 5EX. The application sought authorisation for the supply of alcohol for consumption off the premises, with proposed opening hours of 08:00 to 23:00, Monday to Sunday.

The decision was made after considering the application, the operating schedule, and representations from the public. No representations were received from responsible authorities, such as the Police or Environmental Health.

Two objections were lodged by members of the public: Ann Chapman, on behalf of the Walpole Residents' Association, and Jenna Julius. Both raised concerns primarily related to the prevention of crime and disorder, and the prevention of public nuisance. Jenna Julius also cited concerns regarding public safety.

The Sub-Committee acknowledged that these representations were relevant but found them to be general in nature and not supported by specific evidence that the grant of the licence would undermine the licensing objectives. The committee placed significant weight on the absence of objections from responsible authorities, who are considered best placed to assess potential risks to the licensing objectives. No evidence of past incidents at the premises was presented, nor was there substantive material to suggest the applicant's proposed operating schedule would be inadequate.

The application did depart from the Council's Statement of Licensing Policy¹ regarding local neighbourhood core hours, as it sought an earlier start time. However, the policy allows for applications outside core hours to be considered on their individual merits. The Sub-Committee was satisfied that granting the licence as applied for would not undermine the licensing objectives, noting the premises' nature as a warehouse-style, high-end alcohol retailer, coupled with the operating schedule and the lack of concerns from responsible authorities.

The Sub-Committee also took into account that Majestic Wine Warehouses Ltd is an established and reputable operator with a good compliance record. The committee concluded that granting the licence as applied for was appropriate and proportionate, and that the two additional conditions offered by the applicant during the hearing were not necessary for the promotion of the licensing objectives.

The decision can be appealed to the Ealing Magistrates' Court within 21 days of notification.