The Licensing Sub-Committee of The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to consider an objection to a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for the sale of alcohol at Flat A, 27 Tavistock Road, London, W11 1AS. The committee decided to issue a Counter Notice, effectively refusing the TEN, due to concerns about the promotion of the licensing objectives for the prevention of crime and disorder and public safety.

Temporary Event Notice Refused for 27 Tavistock Road

The Licensing Sub-Committee considered an objection from the Metropolitan Police to a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) submitted by Mr Innocent Ndemera for the sale of alcohol at Flat A, 27 Tavistock Road, London, W11 1AS. The TEN was for the sale of alcohol on Sunday 30 and Monday 31 August 2026, during the Notting Hill Carnival¹.

The Police objected on the grounds that allowing the event would undermine the licensing objectives of preventing crime and disorder and ensuring public safety. PC Mark Perry, representing the Police, highlighted concerns about the premises' location within a busy area of the Notting Hill Carnival footprint, close to a sound system, which would attract large crowds. He expressed worries about potential congestion, difficulties for emergency vehicle access, and the risk of customers falling down steep steps leading to the rear garden area. PC Perry also noted that the initial TEN application stated the event would only take place in the front garden, but during the hearing, it was revealed that access to the rear garden via the inside of the flat was also intended, a detail not initially provided.

Mr Innocent Ndemera, the Premises User, argued that he was an experienced operator and that the event would be a family-run business focused on a cultural celebration. He stated that alcohol would only be consumed on the premises and that SIA-accredited supervisors would be present. Ms Wenta Araia, also involved in the event, added that they had operated from the premises in previous years without issue and had implemented safety measures.

However, the Committee was concerned about the proposed access arrangements to the rear garden, involving customers walking through the flat, and the ability of the three SIA supervisors to manage all areas effectively, especially with one positioned outside to prevent queues. They also noted the busy nature of the area during Notting Hill Carnival.

After considering all submissions, the Committee concluded that issuing a Counter Notice was necessary to promote the licensing objectives of preventing crime and disorder and public safety. This decision means that permission for the licensable activities requested in the TEN was not granted.