The Licensing Panel A of Camden Council is scheduled to consider an application to vary a premises licence for Wendy's, located at 189-191 Camden High Street NW1 7BP. The panel will also discuss guidance on procedures for remote meetings.

Wendy's Premises Licence Variation Application

The primary focus of the meeting is expected to be the application to vary the premises licence for Wendy's, a fast-food restaurant in Camden Town. The application seeks to extend the hours for late-night refreshments from 23:00 to 03:00, Monday to Sunday, and to amend the premises' opening hours to the same times. Additionally, the applicant proposes to amend, remove, and add several conditions to the existing licence.

The report pack indicates that nine relevant representations have been received in opposition to the application. These representations come from the Police Responsible Authority, the Licensing Authority Responsible Authority, Environmental Health, a local councillor, three resident associations, and two residents.

Key areas of concern raised in the representations include:

• Prevention of Crime and Disorder: The Metropolitan Police Service has raised significant concerns, stating that the area of Camden Town experiences higher-than-average alcohol-related crime and that extending the hours of operation could exacerbate existing issues such as violence, robbery, drug dealing, and anti-social behaviour. They note that The MPS submit that extending the premises' operation until 03:00 hours will increase pedestrian footfall, increase dwell time within the area and attract persons leaving licensed premises at peak dispersal times.¹
• Public Safety: Concerns have been raised about the potential for increased violence, robbery, sexual offences, and medical emergencies associated with intoxicated individuals remaining in the area for longer periods.
• Prevention of Public Nuisance: Representations highlight potential increases in noise from patrons, litter associated with takeaway food, and congregation on the street, which could adversely affect nearby residents. Councillor Patricia Callaghan (Cabinet Member for Community Resilience) has stated, The health of the residents in the area will be significantly affected due to sleep deprivation.²
• Proposed Condition Changes: The Metropolitan Police Service has expressed concern regarding the proposed amendments to CCTV and security provisions, suggesting that the proposed wording might reduce the effectiveness of these measures.

The report also details the Camden Statement of Licensing Policy, specifically referencing policies on Framework Hours, Women's Safety, and Late-night refreshment venues. The application appears to breach the Council's adopted policy on Framework Hours, which sets out different operating times for licences not including the sale or supply of alcohol.

The panel will consider the application, representations, and relevant legislation, including the Licensing Act 2003³, the Camden Statement of Licensing Policy⁴, and guidance issued by the Secretary of State. The panel has the option to grant the application in full, grant it subject to revised conditions, or reject the application.

Guidance on Remote Meetings

The panel will also discuss and agree upon the procedure rules for conducting remote meetings under the Licensing Act 2003 and associated regulations. This includes protocols for using Microsoft Teams, managing audio and video feeds, public participation, and handling confidential or exempt items.