The Licensing Sub-Committee was scheduled to consider an application for a new premises licence for S&K News in West Drayton. This application has attracted representations from an interested party.

Application for a Premises Licence: S&K News, 64 Byron Way, West Drayton

The Licensing Sub-Committee was scheduled to consider an application for a new premises licence for S&K News, located at 64 Byron Way, West Drayton, UB7 9JD. The applicant, represented by Nira Suresh of Arka Licensing Consultants, sought permission to supply alcohol for off-sales only, seven days a week, between 06:00 and 23:00. The premises is described as a long-established newsagents, stationery, cards, and grocery store, with the applicant wishing to add alcohol to its product offerings for the convenience of local residents.

The application has attracted a representation from Mr. Rajinder Singh Chopra, owner of the nearby off-licence Glebe Food Fare at 86 Coleridge Way, West Drayton, UB7 9HS. Mr. Chopra's representation, submitted on behalf of Sehej Enterprises Ltd, cited concerns related to the prevention of crime and disorder, public nuisance, protection of children from harm, and public safety. The representation suggested that an additional off-licence could lead to increased alcohol-related disorder, anti-social behaviour, litter, and noise, and could also exacerbate the risk of underage drinking. Mr. Chopra requested that the application be rejected. A petition signed by local residents was also submitted, but it was decided that this did not meet the requirements of Hillingdon's Statement of Licensing Policy and therefore could not be considered.

The report pack outlined the relevant sections of the s.182 Guidance and Hillingdon's Licensing Policy, which guide the determination of such applications. These documents emphasise that decisions must be evidence-based, justified, and proportionate to the promotion of the four licensing objectives. The policy also states that representations based on the need for licensed premises are not a matter for the licensing authority. The applicant's operating schedule detailed the steps they proposed to take to promote the licensing objectives, including the installation of CCTV, the adoption of a 'Challenge 25' policy, regular staff training on the Licensing Act 2003, and the maintenance of incident and refusal logs.

The report also noted that an initial representation from Mr. Chopra regarding the lease terms of S&K News was deemed invalid as Hillingdon Council is no longer the freeholder of the property.

The Licensing Sub-Committee, comprising Councillor Becky Haggar OBE (Chair), Councillor Peter Smallwood OBE, and Councillor Kuldeep Lakhmana, was scheduled to consider these matters. The proceedings were to follow a set protocol, allowing for the presentation of the case by the council's Regulatory Services/Licensing Officer, the applicant, and any other parties making representations.