The Licensing Act 2003 Sub-Committee of Waltham Forest Council met on Thursday, 5 February 2026, to consider an application for a premises licence for Gro Green, located at 3-5 Market Parade, 325-327 Forest Road, London, E17 6DY. The committee granted the application in full, allowing for the sale of alcohol for off-premises consumption from 06:30 to 23:30 seven days a week, and for the premises to be open to the public from 06:00 to 00:00 daily.

Application for a Premises Licence: Gro Green

The Sub-Committee considered an application from Mr Hasan Kepez for a premises licence for Gro Green, a proposed supermarket at 3-5 Market Parade, 325-327 Forest Road, Walthamstow, London E17 6DY. The application sought permission to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises between 06:30 and 23:30, Monday to Sunday, and for the premises to be open to the public from 06:00 to 00:00 daily.

During the consultation period, three representations were received from local residents, citing concerns related to the prevention of public nuisance, public safety, and the prevention of crime and disorder. Additionally, the Licensing Authority submitted one representation. However, the applicant agreed to all the conditions proposed by the Licensing Authority, which led to the withdrawal of their representation.

The Sub-Committee, comprising Councillor Sally Littlejohn (Chair), Councillor Kastriot Berberi, and Councillor Kay Isa, heard representations from the applicant, Mr Hasan Kepez, and his son, Mr Baran Kepez.

Decision: The Sub-Committee decided to GRANT the application in full.

Reasoning for Decision: The Sub-Committee carefully considered the agenda pack, written and oral representations, the Council's Statement of Licensing Policy, and the Revised Home Office Guidance issued under section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003.

They noted that Mr Baran Kepez explained that Gro Green would be a local supermarket offering a range of groceries, fresh produce, and international food items, including organic alcohol. He highlighted that the premises' lighting would improve the visibility and safety of the currently dark area. The supermarket would be equipped with CCTV covering all entry and exit points, and staff would be fully trained in the Challenge 25 scheme, refusing sales to intoxicated individuals, and managing litter outside the premises. The applicant's family has extensive experience in running similar businesses, including shops in Leyton and a cash and carry wholesaler in Tottenham.

The Sub-Committee acknowledged the concerns raised by local residents regarding anti-social behaviour (ASB), street drinking, litter, noise, crime and disorder, and the protection of children. However, they were satisfied that the applicant had addressed these concerns by agreeing to robust conditions proposed by the Licensing Authority. These conditions, which would be added to the licence, were designed to minimise noise nuisance and the likelihood of underage sales. The Sub-Committee considered the applicant to be an experienced and responsible business owner, and found no evidence to suggest that the premises would exacerbate existing ASB issues. The comprehensive CCTV, trained staff, and the applicant's willingness to cooperate with responsible authorities were seen as positive measures.

The Sub-Committee concluded that granting the licence with the agreed conditions would uphold the licensing objectives and help alleviate the concerns of the local residents.

Right of Appeal: In accordance with Schedule 5 of the Licensing Act 2003, relevant parties have the right to appeal this decision to Thames Magistrates Court, 58 Bow Road, London E3 4DJ, within twenty-one days of notification of the decision.