The Licensing (2003 Act) Sub-Committee of Newham Council met on Wednesday 21 October 2026. The meeting was convened to hear and determine a variation application for the Broadwick Festival, located at Mill Road, Silvertown Quays, E16 1UR. However, due to an unforeseen emergency, a complete panel was not available, and the meeting was subsequently closed without proceeding with the application.

Broadwick Festival Variation Application

The primary item on the agenda was a variation application for the Broadwick Festival, submitted by Silverworks Island Limited. The application sought to amend the existing premises licence to increase the maximum number of permitted event days from six to ten per year. It also aimed to remove restrictions that limited events to no more than three consecutive days and to remove the restriction on the days of the week on which events could take place. Furthermore, the applicant requested an extension of permitted hours for licensable activities from Monday to Thursday, from 12:00 to 23:00, to align with existing Friday and Saturday hours, and to extend Sunday hours to 22:30.

The application received a significant number of representations, both for and against the proposed variations.

Representations in Support: A total of 18 residents submitted letters in support of the application, alongside 6 business operators and interested parties. These supporters highlighted the positive cultural and economic benefits the festival brings to the area, including job creation, increased visitor numbers, and the productive use of an underutilised site. Many noted their personal positive experiences, stating that the events caused minimal noise disturbance and were well-managed. Supporters also emphasised the importance of such cultural events for the vibrancy and regeneration of Silvertown and the Royal Docks.

Representations in Objection: Conversely, a councillor and 11 residents raised objections to the application. The primary concerns centred on the licensing objectives of the Prevention of Public Nuisance, Crime and Disorder, and Public Safety. Objectors expressed worries about increased noise pollution, particularly bass and crowd noise, which they felt would significantly impact residents, especially on weekdays and during evenings. Concerns were also raised about potential increases in litter, waste, traffic congestion, and strain on local infrastructure and public transport. Some residents highlighted the cumulative impact of noise from various sources in the area and the potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to high noise levels. The extension of hours to 23:00 on weekdays was also a significant point of contention.

Councillor's Representation: Councillor Rob Callender, representing the Royal Victoria ward, initially made a representation against the application, focusing on the Prevention of Public Nuisance. Discussions were held regarding proposed amendments to the application, which included limiting the extended flexibility to Thursdays only, with specific hours of operation for Thursdays set at 16:00 to 22:30.

Outcome: Due to an unforeseen emergency, the Licensing (2003 Act) Sub-Committee was unable to proceed with hearing the application and determining the variation. The meeting was closed.