The Licensing Sub-Committee of Havering Council is scheduled to consider an application for a premises licence for Ilirida Cafe. The committee will also review the procedure for hearings under the Licensing Act 2003.

Application for a Premises Licence: Ilirida Cafe

The main item on the agenda is an application for a premises licence for Ilirida Café Ltd, located at 36 Upminster Road South, Rainham RM13 9AA. The application, made under section 17 of the Licensing Act 2003, seeks to permit the supply of alcohol for consumption on the premises between 11:00 and 23:00, seven days a week.

Ilirida Café is described as a modest-sized café, with approximately 80% of its products being soft drinks, refreshments, teas, and coffees. The applicant has agreed to adopt conditions proposed by the Licensing Authority, which are in line with Havering's licensing policy. These conditions state that alcohol will only be sold to a person sitting down eating a meal and for consumption with that meal, and that alcohol will be served to customers by waiter/waitress service only. These measures are intended to ensure the premises does not operate in a manner similar to a bar or pub.

The report pack indicates that there have been six relevant representations against this application from interested persons, raising concerns related to the licensing objectives. These include objections from residents living in close proximity to the café, such as Elaine Hulcup and Terry Hulcup of 34 Upminster Road South, and Emily and Sandra Goldsmith of 42 Upminster Road South. Concerns raised by these residents include potential public nuisance from noise, customer congregation, smoking, and late-evening disturbance, as well as issues with deliveries and parking. Jessica Clements, also of 34 Upminster Road South, has also submitted a representation, highlighting concerns about the impact on her 12-year-old stepson, who has a mental disability and requires a calm and safe home environment. The representations also touch upon the prevention of crime and disorder, and the protection of children from harm, particularly given the proximity to a local primary school. Claire Trendell of 25 Glenwood Avenue has also objected on the grounds of public nuisance, crime and disorder, protection of children from harm, and public safety.

There were no representations against the application received from any responsible authorities.

Procedure for Hearings under the Licensing Act 2003

The committee will also review the procedure for hearings under the Licensing Act 2003, as detailed in a report from the Clerk. This report outlines the legal framework and procedural steps for considering applications for premises licences, including the options available to the Sub-Committee when relevant representations are made. These options include modifying licence conditions, rejecting the application, or granting the licence if no steps are considered necessary. The report details the roles of various participants, procedural matters such as the introduction of the application, documentary evidence, representations, and cross-examination, as well as provisions for failure of parties to attend, adjournments, and the Sub-Committee's determination. The report also clarifies the powers to exclude people from hearings and the recording of proceedings.

The meeting is scheduled to be chaired by Councillor Christine Vickery, Deputy Mayor of Havering. The other members of the Sub-Committee are Councillor Geoff Starns and Councillor Lesley Tyler.