The Licensing Sub-Committee of Kensington and Chelsea Council met on Monday 24 August 2026 to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for Maramia Cafe. The committee decided to issue a counter-notice, refusing the TEN, on the grounds that it would undermine the licensing objectives of preventing crime and disorder and ensuring public safety.

Temporary Event Notice for Maramia Cafe Refused

The Licensing Sub-Committee refused a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) submitted by Mr Mohammed Zomlot for Maramia Cafe, located at 274 Portobello Road, W10 5TE. The TEN sought permission to sell alcohol on and off the premises on Sunday 30 August and Monday 31 August 2026, between 12 midday and 7pm, with a maximum capacity of 20 persons.

The Metropolitan Police objected to the TEN, citing concerns about the prevention of crime and disorder and public safety. PC Mark Perry, representing the police, highlighted that Maramia Cafe is situated in a very busy and congested area during Notting Hill Carnival. He stated that last year, despite assurances from Mr Zomlot that alcohol would only be served inside and queues would be managed, officers observed that alcohol was being served to people outside the premises, attracting crowds and creating a pinch point that posed a risk of overcrowding. PC Perry expressed a lack of confidence that Mr Zomlot would adhere to undertakings this year, noting that the applicant had not responded to the police's concerns.

Councillor Edward Whitley and Councillor Natacha Tannous Ritchie questioned PC Perry, seeking clarification on the observations made last year and whether any enforcement action had been taken. PC Perry confirmed that the observations were formally recorded and that the applicant had been informed of the issues on the Sunday, yet the same problems persisted on the Monday.

The committee also considered potential conditions that could be attached to the TEN if it were to be granted, as outlined by Laura McGurn from the licensing team. However, PC Perry stated that while conditions would be useful, they would not alleviate the core concern about the applicant's adherence to agreed arrangements.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee, comprising Councillor Greg Hammond (Chair), Councillor Edward Whitley, and Councillor Natacha Tannous Ritchie, decided to issue a counter-notice under Section 105 of The Licensing Act 2003. This decision was based on the belief that allowing the TEN would undermine the licensing objectives of preventing crime and disorder and public safety. The full summary decision was to follow.