The Licensing Sub Committee of Tower Hamlets Council met on Tuesday 08 October 2024 to consider two applications for new premises licences. The application for Rotunda Café in Island Gardens was granted with several conditions, while the application for Solid Floor Ltd in Ezra Street was refused.

Rotunda Café, Island Gardens, Saunders Ness Road, London, E14 3EA

The Sub-Committee granted a new premises licence for Rotunda Café, located in Island Gardens Park. The licence authorises the sale of alcohol for consumption on and off the premises between 08:00 and 17:00 hours, Monday to Sunday. This decision was made subject to a number of conditions, including the installation of a comprehensive CCTV system, the operation of a Challenge 25 proof of age scheme, and that the supply of alcohol shall only be to a person seated and taking a table meal. The use of the external seating area will be limited to 25 patrons at any given time.

The application had initially faced objections from residents, primarily concerning the potential for public nuisance and crime and disorder, particularly relating to off-sales and the proximity to a school. However, the applicant agreed to reduce the proposed hours for alcohol sales and accepted numerous conditions, which addressed the concerns raised by responsible authorities and objectors. The Sub-Committee considered that these conditions adequately mitigated any potential negative impacts on the licensing objectives.

Solid Floor Ltd, 7a Ezra Street, London E2 7RH

The application for a new premises licence for Solid Floor Ltd, located at 7a Ezra Street, was refused. The applicant sought authorisation for the sale of alcohol (on-sales only) and late-night refreshment. The application attracted numerous representations from residents and a local business, who raised concerns about the potential for public nuisance, crime and disorder, public safety, and the protection of children from harm.

Objectors highlighted the narrowness of Ezra Street, the existing number of licensed premises in the vicinity, and the potential for increased traffic, noise, and anti-social behaviour. They argued that the proposed venue, with a capacity of 80 diners and extended operating hours, would significantly detract from the residential character of the area and exacerbate existing problems.

The Sub-Committee concluded that granting the application would adversely impact the licensing objective of the prevention of public nuisance. While acknowledging the applicant's proposed operating schedule and additional conditions, the Sub-Committee found that the potential for increased noise and disturbance, particularly due to the street's layout and the proximity of residential properties, could not be adequately mitigated. The Sub-Committee also noted that the applicant had not provided sufficient evidence to overcome the hurdle of cumulative impact in the area.