The Licensing Sub-Committee of Hammersmith and Fulham Council met on Wednesday 22 April 2026 to consider the renewal of a Sexual Entertainment Venue (SEV) licence for Secrets at 62 Glenthorne Road, London, W6 0LR. The committee decided to grant the renewal of the licence for a further year, subject to existing conditions.

Renewal of Sexual Entertainment Venue Licence for Secrets

The committee granted the renewal of the Sexual Entertainment Venue (SEV) licence for Secrets, located at 62 Glenthorne Road, London, W6 0LR. The application sought to continue the existing operating schedule and hours, which were last renewed on 8 October 2025¹.

Arguments for Renewal:

The applicant, represented by Sarah Le Fevre, a barrister, argued that there was a presumption to grant a renewal application when no changes to the operating schedule or conditions were proposed. They highlighted the venue's long history of operation since 1997, significant investment in the premises, and a positive working relationship with the police and responsible authorities. The applicant also noted that the police had recently inspected the venue and raised no concerns. They pointed out that the current operating hours, which extend to 4 am on Fridays and Saturdays, do not overlap with the operating hours of nearby nurseries and schools. The applicant also stated that the average weekly attendance was low, with a high staff-to-client ratio, and that there had been no complaints or incidents reported to the council. Furthermore, they argued that the locality had not changed significantly since the last renewal.

Objections to Renewal:

Two objectors, Sam and Anna, raised concerns about the venue's proximity to educational establishments, including two schools and several nurseries. They argued that the venue's location was inappropriate due to the potential impact on children and the predominantly residential nature of the area. Concerns were also raised about potential late-night nuisance and anti-social behaviour, as Secrets is one of the few establishments in the immediate vicinity licensed to operate late. One objector mentioned ongoing plans for the redevelopment of Glenthorne Road, suggesting that the SEV licence might be at odds with these improvement plans. Anna also expressed concerns about public safety for women walking home late at night, citing issues with cars parked outside the venue and the general atmosphere. Both objectors noted that supporting letters for the renewal came from individuals outside the immediate vicinity.

Committee's Decision and Reasoning:

The committee considered the application in light of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982², the Home Office Sexual Entertainment Venues Guidance, and the Council's Sex Establishment Policy³. The policy states a presumption to grant renewal applications for the same activity, hours, and conditions. The committee found that the evidence presented did not displace this presumption. While acknowledging the concerns raised by the objectors regarding the venue's proximity to schools and the residential character of the area, the committee noted that these factors were considered during the previous renewal hearing. The committee also took into account the absence of objections from responsible authorities, including the police, who had recently inspected the premises without raising concerns. The committee decided to grant the renewal, imposing all existing conditions and those proposed by the Licensing Authority, which included enhanced CCTV requirements. The committee also noted the applicant's agreement to a renewal expiring on 31 March 2026, allowing for earlier review.

Other Matters Discussed:

• Enforcement History: It was noted that there had been no formal enforcement action in the last three years, although several complaints had been recorded.
• CCTV Conditions: The committee discussed the number of conditions on the licence, with the police suggesting a potential rationalisation. The applicant agreed to implement enhanced CCTV coverage, including full booth coverage and a diagram of camera placements, and to retain footage for 62 days.
• Conflict of Interest Allegations: One objector raised concerns about perceived conflicts of interest between the venue operator and the local authority, stating it was widely talked about. The licensing officer stated that such concerns would be investigated and that the transparent nature of the SEV licensing process, with annual renewals and public objections, aimed to ensure objectivity.
• Operating Hours and Customer Numbers: The applicant stated that the average weekly attendance was 58, with a peak of around 70 people per week. They clarified that the venue operates five days a week, leading to an average of about 12 customers per day. The applicant also suggested that cars parked outside might be staff vehicles rather than customers.
• Smoking Areas: The applicant confirmed that staff and performers have designated smoking areas at the back of the premises and that smoking at the front is not permitted.
• Front of House Entertainment: An objector described a lack of visible front-of-house entertainment during a visit and concerns about performers ordering drinks on their account without their consent. The applicant stated that performers do not gather outside the front of the premises and that there are separate areas for performers at the back.
• Security: The applicant confirmed that there are three members of security on duty during every shift.