The Licensing Sub-Committee of Wandsworth Council met on Tuesday 13 October 2026 to consider an application for a new premises licence for Duende Lab Limited. The committee granted the licence with modified conditions.

Duende Lab Limited Premises Licence Application

The subcommittee considered an application for a new premises licence for Duende Lab Limited, located at 6A St Joseph Street, London SW8 4DN. The applicant, Duende Lab Limited, sought permission to sell alcohol for consumption on the premises between 10:00 and 23:00 seven days a week.

The application received one objection from a local resident, Serge Lioutyi, who raised concerns regarding the protection of children from harm and the prevention of public nuisance. Mr Lioutyi highlighted the proximity of the premises to residential properties, including a block where families with young children live, and to St Mary's RC primary School, Imagination NURSERY, and Newton Prep School. Concerns were also raised about potential noise and anti-social behaviour from patrons congregating outside the premises late into the evening.

During the consultation process, the Metropolitan Police, the Council's noise and nuisance team, and Trading Standards had initially raised concerns. However, the applicant amended their operating schedule to address these issues, leading to the withdrawal of their representations. These amendments included the implementation of a Challenge 25 policy for alcohol sales, regular staff training, and record-keeping for refusals. Additionally, the applicant agreed to display notices at exits reminding customers not to loiter or consume alcohol outside, and to install a CCTV system with incident logs.

Artur Brzezgalov, Managing Director of Duende Lab, explained that the business operates as an arts and crafts studio offering creative workshops, and that alcohol sales would be ancillary to these activities, not the primary focus. He clarified that the premises would not operate as a pub, bar, or nightclub. Mr Brzezgalov also addressed the resident's concerns, stating that the business has a separate entrance from the residential flats and that staff would be trained to prevent issues related to noise and anti-social behaviour. He also explained that the proposed operating hours were to ensure fairness for customers attending workshops at different times of the day.

The subcommittee questioned the applicant regarding the operation of their business, particularly concerning the sale of alcohol at their current unlicensed premises and the potential for confusion with a previous online review mentioning Lambrusco. Mr Brzezgalov clarified that they currently offer only soft drinks and that the review was misleading, as they do not currently sell alcohol. He reiterated that alcohol would only be available to those attending workshops and not to walk-in customers.

Following discussions, the subcommittee decided to grant the premises licence. The decision, reasons, and any legal guidance will be confirmed in writing within five working days, along with information on appeal rights.