The Licensing Committee of Westminster Council met on Tuesday 14 July 2026 to discuss the draft Statement of Licensing Policy and an update on recent licensing appeals. The committee also reviewed proposed changes to street trading policies and conditions.

Consideration of Draft Statement of Licensing Policy

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the consideration of the draft Statement of Licensing Policy, prepared under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy is a statutory requirement, with a new version needing to be published by 30 September 2026 to take effect on 1 October 2026. The draft policy has been developed following engagement with stakeholders and aims to simplify and streamline the existing policy without materially changing its substance. It includes a new licensing strategy, enhanced safety measures, and updated guidance for operators. The policy also addresses the implications of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, known as Martyn's Law, and measures to reduce violence against women and girls. The draft policy has been updated to reflect the new Cumulative Impact Assessment 2026, with revised Special Consideration Zones. New policies for standard temporary event notices and personal licences have also been introduced. The committee was asked to provide comments on the draft policy and the accompanying draft Good Operator Guide to be submitted as part of the ongoing consultation.

Update of Licensing Appeals

The committee received an update on recent licensing appeals. This included information on several withdrawn appeals, such as those concerning Sunset Strip and Blue Note Jazz, where legal costs were incurred by the council. Appeals related to Sunny Corner and Concept were also discussed, with significant costs awarded to the council in both instances. Appeals concerning Albert's Schloss, Daylesford Organic Limited, and Eureka were withdrawn, with varying cost settlements. Two appeals remain pending: one against the revocation of the premises licence for Al-Balad due to illegal workers, and another from local residents against a new premises licence for Wetherspoons in the West End Cumulative Impact Zone. Additionally, there are pending appeals related to Mediterranean Café and Violets concerning variations and revocations of premises licences. The report also detailed a prosecution brought by Global Radio against the Council regarding busking noise in Leicester Square, with an Abatement Order issued against the Council, which the Council is appealing.

Other Business

Under Any Other Business, the committee discussed issues relating to the Greater London Authority (GLA) potentially becoming a Responsible Authority and the possible implications of this change. The committee noted that an additional meeting would be held on 14 July to consider and provide input into the Licensing Policy Consultation.