The Licensing Sub-Committee convened to address concerns regarding licensing applications for The Crown and Sceptre and 208 Wandsworth Road, as well as a variation request for Fire Nightclub. Ultimately, the sub-committee chose to defer a decision on 208 Wandsworth Road, and approve the variation request for Fire Nightclub.

Crown and Sceptre

The sub-committee considered a report regarding temporary event notices (TENs) for The Crown and Sceptre at 2A Streatham Hill. The Metropolitan Police Service and the council's Public Protection Team submitted objection notices for six TENs, citing concerns related to all four licensing objectives¹. The police raised issues about recent crime and disorder incidents and live intelligence reports, while the Public Protection Team referenced noise complaints and a noise abatement notice² served on the premises. The sub-committee had the option to approve the TENs, impose conditions, or issue a counter-notice to prevent the events from proceeding, but the decision reached by the committee was not minuted in the transcript you provided.

208 Wandsworth Road

The sub-committee reviewed an application for a new premises licence for 208 Wandsworth Road, the location of the proposed EbonyLife Place London, a cultural and creative hub. The application requested permission for plays, films, live and recorded music, dance performances, late-night refreshment, and alcohol sales. While there were three representations in support of the application, 24 objections were submitted, mainly from local residents. Objectors raised concerns about potential public nuisance, crime, and safety issues, especially given the venue's proximity to residential properties. The applicant, EbonyLife Productions Limited, had revised its initial proposal to address some of these concerns, reducing the terminal hour for all activities to midnight and agreeing to additional conditions requested by the licensing authority. However, after hearing from interested parties, the sub-committee decided to defer its decision to allow for further consideration of appropriate conditions.

Barnaby Ellis, a resident of 3 Cornell Square, spoke on behalf of 44 residents, expressing support for the return of the theatre but raising concerns about the proposed hybrid hospitality venue and a lack of trust in the applicant due to poor engagement. He argued that the proposal failed to meet all four licensing objectives. Ellis requested that the licence be explicitly tied to lawful theatre use and that ancillary services only be provided during ticketed events.

Robin Collins, also a resident of 3 Cornell Square, focused on the hours of operation, highlighting inconsistencies in the application and expressing concerns about future temporary event notice applications. Collins requested earlier terminal hours, with licensable activities ceasing at 10pm and the premises closing at 10:30pm.

Olivia Badner, another resident of the block, raised concerns about safety at the entrance to 3 Cornell Square, particularly the lack of door staff during certain hours. Badner requested that door staff be present whenever the venue is open to the public and that a record be kept of visitors entering the residential area.

In response, Chris Rees-Gay of Woodsworth Solicitors, representing the applicant, defended the application, citing the venue's commitment to the cultural development of Lambeth and the extensive operating schedule of conditions offered. Rees-Gay stated that a letter was sent to residents on 23 September asking for a meeting, and that the 5am closing time was regretted and has been dealt with.

Fire Nightclub

The sub-committee considered an application from RVLC Ltd, for Fire Nightclub, located at Arches 39-44 Parry Street, to vary its premises licence. The application sought to replace existing conditions to allow sex-on-premises events at the venue. Seven representations were received in support of the variation, including those from a local councillor, organisations, and the Mayor of London's office. However, the police and the licensing authority submitted representations against the application, raising concerns about crime, disorder, and public safety. After hearing from all parties, the sub-committee decided to permit the application, finding the new proposed conditions acceptable.

Leo Charolambides, representing the applicant, argued that the existing conditions undermined public health concerns, particularly for the LGBTQ+ community, and that the prohibition had negatively impacted the venue. Charolambides stated that allegations of harm were unfounded and that the venue had gone above and beyond to take care of patrons.

PC Dave Watson of the Metropolitan Police acknowledged the venue's efforts but expressed concern that the proposed measures were already in practice before the voluntary variation and questioned what had significantly changed to prevent future offenses.

Pamela Riley, representing the licensing authority, stated that the proposed variation posed a significant risk to public safety and could lead to an increase in crime and disorder.

Councillor Martin Bailey, representing Vauxhall, spoke in support of the application, arguing that it would bring the activity back into a proper regulatory space and allow the venue to be accountable and visible to authorities.

Bernard Collier, Chief Executive of Vauxhall One, also supported the application, highlighting Fire's professionalism, conscientious management, and contributions to the area's security.

Ultimately, the sub-committee voted to permit the application and remove the two conditions in question, finding the new proposed conditions acceptable.