The Licensing Sub-Committee of Croydon Council was scheduled to consider an application for a premises licence for a food establishment. The meeting's agenda included the determination of this application, which had received representations from interested parties.

Application for a Premises Licence at 33 Brigstock Road, Thornton Heath

The primary item scheduled for discussion was an application for a premises licence for Chixee Chicken at 33 Brigstock Road, Thornton Heath, CR7 7JJ. The applicant, Chixee Ltd., sought to provide late-night refreshment between 11:00 PM and 3:00 AM daily.

The report pack indicated that the applicant had amended their request, now seeking a terminal closing time of 3:00 AM each day, with the premises closing to the public at 1:00 AM and continuing with delivery-only services until 3:00 AM. This application was subject to representations, necessitating a hearing.

The report pack detailed the council's Statement of Licensing Policy, which outlines the framework for determining such applications. This policy aims to promote the four licensing objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm.

The report highlighted that the premises at 33 Brigstock Road falls within Cumulative impact area 3 of Croydon's designated areas, which covers the Brigstock Road and High Street, Thornton Heath corridor. In such areas, there is a presumption that applications for new premises licences or material variations to existing licences to sell alcohol off the premises will be refused if relevant representations are received. This policy is intended to address cumulative impacts on crime, disorder, and nuisance.

The applicant, Chixee Ltd., outlined the steps they intended to take to promote the licensing objectives. These included the installation and maintenance of a CCTV system, staff training in conflict management, a zero-tolerance policy on drugs and alcohol, and daily litter picks in the vicinity. They also proposed that delivery drivers would not be allowed to congregate outside the premises and that all deliveries would occur during daytime hours.

However, representations were received from a local resident expressing concerns regarding the potential for increased noise pollution, littering, anti-social behaviour, and negative impacts on local residents' well-being. The resident specifically mentioned issues with a new kitchen extract system, noise until 3:00 AM, people congregating on the steps to residential flats, and rubbish being left on their doorstep. The resident requested that the application to extend opening hours be rejected.

The Sub-Committee was asked to determine whether to grant the application for the premises licence, with the report noting that the options available were to grant the application, vary it with or without further conditions, or refuse it. The report also stated that the decision could be subject to appeal or judicial review.