The Licensing Sub-Committee of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider an application for a premises licence for a winter event in Holland Park. The committee granted the application, subject to a number of conditions, after hearing representations from the applicant, objectors, and council officers.

Application for a Winter Event in Holland Park

The committee considered an application from GLOW Worldwide Limited for a premises licence to host a winter light art exhibition in Holland Park. The proposed event, Glow at Christmas, would run for up to 35 days per year between 15 November and 31 December, featuring illuminated artworks, recorded music, and the sale of alcohol. The application sought permission for licensable activities from 3pm to 10pm, with the premises open to the public until 10:45pm.

The application received representations from the Friends of Holland Park and The Kensington Society, who, while not objecting in principle, raised concerns about noise, public nuisance, and the impact on the park's tranquility. They requested specific conditions to be attached to the licence.

GLOW Worldwide Limited, represented by Matthew Phipps of TLT Solicitors, presented their case, highlighting the event's family-friendly nature and the comprehensive measures in place 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. They addressed concerns regarding alcohol sales, noise management, crowd control, and the protection of sensitive areas within the park, such as the Kyoto Garden.

Councillor Greg Hammond, Chair of the Licensing Committee, led the discussion, assisted by Councillor Preety Hudd and Councillor Jack Reason. The committee heard from Jenny Kettlewell, Chair of the Friends of Holland Park, and Sophia Lambert and Amanda Frame from The Kensington Society. Christian Harris, a Parks Project Manager for the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea Council, also provided evidence.

After extensive discussion and questioning, the committee decided to grant the premises licence. A number of conditions were agreed upon, including:

• Capacity: The agreed capacity for the event will not exceed 9,999.
• Alcohol Sales: On and off-sales of alcohol will be permitted, with off-sales limited to sealed containers. Consumption of alcohol will be restricted to designated areas.
• Noise Management: A noise management plan will be implemented, and amplified sound will be managed to prevent public nuisance. A condition was agreed that any amplified noise shall not cause a public nuisance, reflecting wording used in the Holland Park Opera's licence.
• Site Access and Security: SIA-licensed security staff and trained stewards will be deployed, with CCTV in operation at key points. Bag searches may be conducted on entry.
• Kyoto Garden: Measures will be in place to protect the Kyoto Garden, with discussions ongoing regarding the temporary relocation of koi carp and the management of visitor flow across the bridge.
• Dispersal: A dispersal plan will direct visitors towards public transport and away from residential streets.
• Licence Duration: The licence will be tied to GLOW Worldwide Limited's concession agreement with the council, with an undertaking to surrender the licence if the concession is terminated. The event will operate for a maximum of 30 days in the first year and 35 days in subsequent years.

The committee also discussed the proposed conditions in detail with the legal advisor, Emma Rowland, and the applicant's representatives, making amendments where necessary to ensure clarity and enforceability. The decision and full reasons will be published in writing within five working days.