The Licensing Sub Committee A met on Monday 23 February 2026 to consider a premises licence application for Point Blank Music School. The meeting's agenda included procedural matters and a detailed discussion regarding the application for the music school.

Application for a Premises Licence: Point Blank Music School

The committee was scheduled to consider an application for a premises licence for Point Blank Music School, located at 23-28 Penn Street, Hoxton, London N1 5DL. The application sought permission for various licensable activities, including plays, films, live music, and recorded music, to take place between 09:00 and 23:00, seven days a week. Additionally, the application requested authorisation for the supply of alcohol for consumption on the premises between 12:00 and 23:00 daily.

The report pack indicated that the premises are not currently licensed for any activity. However, Temporary Event Notices (TENs) had been issued for the premises in the preceding 12 months.

Representations were received from several parties. The Environmental Health Authority (Environmental Protection) confirmed no formal objections but suggested a set of conditions related to acoustic surveys, sound limiting devices, and noise levels. The Police withdrew their representation following agreed conditions. The Licensing Authority received representations on the grounds of the Prevention of Public Nuisance.

Numerous representations were also received from local residents. Concerns raised by residents primarily focused on the potential for public nuisance, noise disturbance, and anti-social behaviour. Specific issues highlighted included:

• Noise Nuisance: Residents living in close proximity, particularly in Duo Tower and Mono Tower on Penn Street, expressed concerns about amplified music, vibration, and noise from patrons congregating outside the premises. They noted that even with windows closed, music and basslines were audible, impacting their ability to sleep and enjoy their homes. The street canyon effect of Penn Street was cited as a factor that could amplify sound.
• Public Safety and Crime and Disorder: Concerns were raised about the potential for increased anti-social behaviour, public disorder, and crime, particularly given the proposed sale of alcohol until 23:00 daily. The proximity to residential buildings, schools (Shoreditch Park Primary School and City of London Academy Shoreditch), and ongoing construction in the area were highlighted as factors that could exacerbate these risks.
• Impact on Residential Amenity: Residents argued that the proposed hours and activities were incompatible with the predominantly residential nature of Penn Street and would negatively impact their quality of life, sleep, and the peaceful enjoyment of their homes. The cumulative impact of existing construction noise and the proposed late-night activities was also a significant concern.
• Suitability of the Premises: Some representations questioned the suitability of the premises for amplified music and alcohol sales, citing the building's design, including skylights and large windows, as potentially leading to noise escape. The applicant's marketing materials, referring to a hub & performance area and club space, were also cited as evidence of intent beyond educational use.
• Procedural Concerns: Some residents noted that they received short notice of the application, impacting their ability to make full representations.

The report pack outlined the licensing objectives as set out in the Licensing Act 2003: the Prevention of Crime and Disorder, Public Safety, the Prevention of Public Nuisance, and the Protection of Children from Harm. It also referenced Hackney's Statement of Licensing Policy, including general principles, licensing objectives, core hours, and policies on special and special consideration areas.

The report detailed potential conditions that could be applied to the licence, derived from the applicant's operating schedule, responsible authority representations, and suggested by the Environmental Protection Authority. These included conditions related to CCTV, incident logs, staff training, noise control, acoustic surveys, and sound limiting devices.

The committee was presented with two options for decision-making: to refuse the application or to approve it with any necessary conditions or restrictions for the promotion of the licensing objectives.

Licensing Sub-Committee Hearing Procedure

The meeting also included a standing item regarding the Licensing Sub-Committee Hearing Procedure. This procedure, detailed in the agenda, outlines the steps involved in hearings under the Licensing Act 2003, including the appointment of a chair, presentation of cases by applicants and responsible authorities, discussion, and the announcement of decisions. The procedure also covers aspects such as attending hearings, lobbying of councillors, and the appeals process.