The Licensing Sub-Committee of Havering Council is scheduled to consider an application for a premises licence for Roseland News. The meeting documents outline the procedure for hearings under the Licensing Act 2003 and detail the application for the licence, which has attracted representations from both responsible authorities and an interested party.

Application for a Premises Licence for Roseland News

The primary focus of the meeting is the application for a premises licence for Roseland News, located at 69 Farnham Road, Romford RM3 8XA. The application, made by Mr Ronakbhai Ashokbhai Patel, seeks to permit the supply of alcohol for consumption off the premises during specific hours: Monday to Friday from 06:00 to 21:00, Saturdays from 07:00 to 21:00, and Sundays from 07:00 to 17:00.

The premises is situated within the Gooshays cumulative impact zone¹, an area identified in Havering's licensing policy as experiencing a density of off-licence premises that may be undermining licensing objectives. Havering's licensing policy states that in such areas, it creates a rebuttable presumption that applications for new premises licences... that will add to the existing cumulative impact will normally be refused unless the applicant can demonstrate why the operation of the premises involved will not add to the cumulative impact and not impact adversely on the promotion of the licensing objectives. ²

The application has generated representations from several parties. The Licensing Authority, represented by Oisin Daly, has raised an objection based on concerns about street drinking and the lack of proposed conditions to address this issue. The Metropolitan Police, represented by PC Chris Stockman, also objects, citing concerns about the absence of sufficient measures to mitigate risks associated with street drinking, alcohol-related anti-social behaviour, and the cumulative impact within the zone. The police have proposed conditions including limiting the alcohol content of beers, lagers, stouts, and ciders to 6% ABV and ensuring that beers, lagers, stouts, ciders, and alcopops are sold in packs of no less than four.

An interested party, L Ungureanu, has also submitted an objection on the grounds of public nuisance, crime and disorder, protection of children from harm, and public safety. This individual expresses concern about existing issues with alcohol consumption in the area, including arguments, shouting, fights, and public urination, and believes that granting the licence could exacerbate these problems.

The report pack also includes a supplementary agenda item from the police, providing additional information from PC Chris Stockman and Richard Ruane, a Ward Sergeant, detailing specific incidents and ongoing concerns related to street drinking and anti-social behaviour in the area. This information highlights the potential for increased problems if high-strength alcohol and single-container sales are permitted.

The Sub-Committee will also consider the procedure for hearings under the Licensing Act 2003, as outlined in a report from the Clerk. This document details the steps involved in considering applications, representations, and making determinations, including the powers of the Sub-Committee to modify licence conditions or reject applications.