The Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to consider a new premises licence application for an outdoor cultural festival. The committee will also review the standard procedure for licensing hearings.

Licence Application for Lekker In London

The main item scheduled for discussion is an application for a new premises licence for an event named Lekker In London to be held at Cheam Park. The application seeks authorisation for the retail sale of alcohol for consumption on and off the premises between 12:00 and 22:00 on Saturdays. It also requests permission for the provision of recorded music, dance performances, and similar activities during the same hours. Live music would be permitted from 10:00 to 22:00, with the first two hours designated for sound checks only. If granted, the licence would take effect from 26 August 2026 and would be renewed annually on the last Saturday of August.

The report pack details that the applicant, Lyle Millar, trading as Lekker In London, has proposed measures 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. These measures include a maximum capacity of 4,999 attendees, controlled entry points with bag searches, CCTV surveillance, and a dedicated Event Control Room. Alcohol sales would be managed with a Challenge 25 policy, and no external alcohol would be permitted. Noise management plans, waste control, and resident communication strategies are also outlined.

However, the committee will also consider several objections from Other Persons ¹. These representations raise concerns regarding potential public nuisance from noise, light pollution, and late-night disturbance, particularly given the event's proximity to residential areas. Concerns about public safety include emergency vehicle access through narrow roads and crowd management within the park. Objections also highlight the potential for increased alcohol-related disorder, anti-social behaviour, vandalism, and littering in surrounding streets. Furthermore, concerns are raised about the protection of children from harm due to potential exposure to alcohol misuse and disorderly behaviour. Some representations also note that the event is already being advertised and tickets are being sold, questioning the consultation process.

The committee will also review the standard Licensing Sub-Committee - Hearings Procedure document, which outlines the process for determining licence applications, including how representations are handled, the conduct of hearings, and the decision-making process.