The Licensing Sub-Committee of Richmond upon Thames Council considered an application for a new premises licence for The Scrummery, located at 105 Whitton Road, Twickenham. The committee heard representations from the applicant, responsible authorities, and interested parties, ultimately deciding to grant the licence with a comprehensive set of conditions.

The Scrummery Premises Licence Application

The application by Rubi Rocks Ltd for a new premises licence for The Scrummery at 105 Whitton Road, Twickenham, TW1 1BZ was heard by the Licensing Sub-Committee. The premises, described as a restaurant and bar, had an existing licence that was subject to a review hearing earlier the same day.

The applicant, represented by Gary Grant, proposed significant modifications to their initial application in response to concerns raised. These included ending all licensable activities at 9 pm and closing the premises to the public at 10 pm, removing the application for regulated entertainment, and agreeing to a condition that there would be no mobile bar at the front of the premises. They also proposed a modification to off-sales of alcohol, restricting them to customers consuming within the rear conservatory.

Numerous representations were received, with 43 in support and 15 against the application. Supporters highlighted the premises' good management, safety, and controlled atmosphere, particularly on match days. Objectors raised concerns about potential overcrowding, customers gathering outside, noise disturbance, public urination, and public safety issues, particularly on rugby match days. Councillor Katie Mansfield, representing the St Margaret's and North Twickenham Ward, formally objected on the grounds of public nuisance, public safety, and the protection of children. Mr and Mrs Griffiths, the current licence holders and landlords, also objected, stating they were taking back possession of the premises and did not consent to the application.

Expert witnesses, David Nevitt (Environmental Health Consultant) and Jim Sollers (former Metropolitan Police Licensing Officer), presented reports based on their observations during match days. Both reported improvements in the management of the premises and adherence to licensing objectives, although Mr Nevitt noted the need for a noise limiter device.

The applicant's legal representative, Gary Grant, argued that granting the licence would make the operators legally accountable for the first time, which was preferable to them operating under the landlord's licence without such accountability. He highlighted the numerous conditions offered, including those agreed with the Principal Licensing Officer, Russ Stevens, as a proportionate solution.

Following extensive representations, the subcommittee retired to deliberate. A written decision notice was to be issued within five working days.

Key Conditions Agreed

The applicant agreed to a comprehensive set of conditions, many of which were voluntarily proposed and developed through consultation. These included:

• Hours of Operation: All licensable activities to end at 9 pm, with the premises closing to the public at 10 pm.
• Regulated Entertainment: The application for regulated entertainment was withdrawn, leaving only the sale of alcohol.
• Off-Sales: Off-sales of alcohol restricted to customers consuming within the rear conservatory.
• Mobile Bar: No mobile bar to operate in the front courtyard.
• Capacity Limits: Capacity limits to be subject to a fire risk assessment, with a proposed limit of 40 in the front courtyard and 110 in the interior areas.
• CCTV: A comprehensive CCTV system to be installed and maintained, meeting Metropolitan Police requirements.
• Staffing and Security: A minimum of two SIA-licensed door supervisors on every match day, with body-worn video devices.
• Noise Management: Installation and maintenance of a noise-limiting device calibrated by an Acoustic Consultant. No external or portable speakers to be operated.
• Dispersal and Pavement Management: A phased dispersal procedure and a four-phase pavement control framework to manage customer flow and prevent obstruction.
• Resident Liaison: Regular meetings with local residents to be held in advance of rugby matches.
• Prohibited Activities: No external speakers, no portable speakers, and no customers permitted to leave the curtilage of the premises with alcohol on match days.
• Staff Training: Comprehensive training for all staff on licensing objectives, crime scene preservation, welfare and vulnerability, and counter-terrorism.
• Rahul Soni: A specific condition was agreed that Rahul Soni shall not be involved in the management, operation, or day-to-day running of the premises in any capacity.

The committee noted that the decision on the lease dispute between the landlords, Mr and Mrs Griffiths, and the operators, Rubi Rocks Ltd, would be determined by the courts and was separate from the licensing application.

The meeting concluded with the subcommittee retiring to make its decision, which would be communicated within five working days.