The Licensing Sub-Committee of Havering Council met on Wednesday 12 August 2026 to consider an application for a premises licence for Ilirida Café Ltd. The committee refused the application, citing concerns about the potential for public nuisance and the protection of children from harm.

Application for a Premises Licence - Ilirida Café Ltd

The Sub-Committee considered an application for a premises licence for Ilirida Café Ltd, located at 36 Upminster Road South, Rainham, RM13 9AA. The application sought permission to supply alcohol for consumption on the premises between 11:00 and 23:00 seven days a week.

The applicant, Nik Preci, proposed that 80% of the café's products would be soft drinks, refreshments, teas, and coffees, with alcohol sales being ancillary. He had agreed to conditions that alcohol would only be sold to seated customers consuming a meal and would be served by waiter/waitress service only. These conditions were intended to prevent the premises from operating as a bar or pub.

However, six representations were received from local residents, raising concerns about noise, disturbance, loss of privacy, and potential increases in anti-social behaviour and alcohol consumption. Two residents, Elaine Hulcup and Terry Hulcup, attended the hearing to voice their objections. Their primary concerns included noise from customers congregating outside the premises, particularly late at night, and the impact on their peaceful enjoyment of their homes. Terry Hulcup, who has extensive experience in the licensing trade, also expressed doubts about the applicant's understanding of licensing objectives and the suitability of the proposed food offering to accompany alcohol.

Further concerns were raised by residents regarding the proximity of the café to a primary school and the potential impact on vulnerable children. Issues related to parking and the external structure of the café were also mentioned, although the Sub-Committee noted that planning matters were outside the scope of the licensing hearing.

During the hearing, the applicant, Nik Preci, was questioned about his understanding of the four licensing objectives, and he was unable to identify them. The Sub-Committee considered this a significant concern, as understanding these objectives is crucial for the responsible management of a licensed premises.

Decision: The Sub-Committee resolved to refuse the application. They concluded that, despite the proposed conditions, granting the licence would likely undermine the licensing objectives, specifically the prevention of public nuisance and the protection of children from harm. The limited food offering, the applicant's apparent lack of understanding of licensing objectives, and the premises' proximity to residential properties were key factors in their decision.

Any party who made a relevant representation has the right to appeal this decision to the Magistrates' Court within 21 days of notification.