The Alcohol and Entertainment Licensing Sub-Committee were scheduled to meet to consider an application for a new premises licence. The application was for a licence to sell alcohol at Lilburne Walk Local, 67 Lilburne Walk. The committee was expected to consider representations made for and against the granting of the licence.

Application for a New Premises Licence for Lilburne Walk Local

The sub-committee was scheduled to consider an application from Varandeep Singh Khurana for a new premises licence for Lilburne Walk Local, 67 Lilburne Walk in Stonebridge. The application was for the sale of alcohol from 9am to 11pm, Monday to Sunday, and for the premises to remain open from 7am to 11pm.

Objections and Representations

The report pack included a number of objections to the granting of the licence. Representations were received from the police, the Licensing Officer, a local councillor, local residents and a petition containing the signatures of over 70 residents. The police subsequently withdrew their representation.

Grounds for objection

The grounds for objection from residents and Councillor Abdifatah Aden, Labour Councillor for Stonebridge Ward, included:

• The prevention of crime and disorder
• Public safety
• The prevention of public nuisance
• The protection of children from harm

Objectors stated that the area around St Raphael's Estate, where the premises is located, has a history of crime and social issues, and that the granting of a licence would exacerbate these problems.

Our estate already contends with significant issues related to drug and alcohol abuse, which often result in anti-social behaviour. The introduction of another alcohol retailer in such close proximity to residential homes would undoubtedly exacerbate these existing problems. It risks becoming a focal point for street drinking and could lead to an increase in alcohol-fueled disputes and disorderly conduct, placing additional strain on local police resources.

Objectors also raised concerns about public safety and the prevention of public nuisance, stating that the premises is located close to Brent River Park, where people often drink alcohol and take drugs, and that the granting of a licence would encourage this behaviour.

Concerns were raised that the shop sits between two children's playgrounds, and opposite the St Raphael's Voice Centre, a local community hub.

One representation referred to a violent incident at The Dar al Ilm Mosque, next door to the premises, where a person perpetrated racial and religious abuse towards worshippers after Friday prayer.

One representation included concerns about other businesses run by Mr Varandeep Singh Khurana, referencing online reviews that reported issues such as rude or discriminatory behaviour by staff, the sale of expired goods, and alleged counterfeit alcohol.

Proposed Conditions

In a letter dated 29 October 2025, the Licensing Inspector, Regulatory Services, outlined a number of conditions that the Licensing Authority required to be included in the operating schedule, including:

• The premises shall operate and maintain a digital colour CCTV system, with recordings kept for 31 days.
• A Challenge 25 policy¹ shall be adopted and adhered to.
• A notice asking customers to leave quietly from the premises shall be displayed by the exit/entrance.
• Any staff directly involved in selling alcohol for retail to consumers will undergo regular training (every 12 months) of Licensing Act 2003 legislation.
• An incident log shall be kept at the premises, and made available for inspection on request to an authorised officer of Brent Council or the Police.
• No high strength beers, lagers, and ciders above 6.0% ABV shall be stocked or sold except for Guiness Foreign Extra and Dragon Stout.
• There shall be no miniatures under 20cl of spirts or wine sold at the premises.
• There shall be no self-service of spirits on the premises.
• A suitable intruder alarm and panic button shall be fitted and maintained.