The Licensing Committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday, 15 April 2026, was set to discuss the renewal of the council's gambling licensing policy, an update on general licensing matters, and a report on recent licensing hearings and enforcement activities. The meeting's agenda indicates that the primary focus was on policy review and operational updates rather than specific site-based decisions.

Gambling Licensing Policy Renewal

The committee was scheduled to consider the renewal of the council's Statement of Gambling Licensing Policy for 2026–2029. This policy outlines how the council will handle applications under the Gambling Act 2005. A key element of the discussion was expected to be the proposed development of a Local Area Profile (LAP), which aims to identify areas with increased vulnerability to gambling-related harm. The report pack detailed the analytical work undertaken to inform this LAP, considering factors such as the concentration of gambling premises, deprivation data, and proximity to schools. The policy also addressed the council's continued resolution not to issue casino premises licences, a stance that has been reaffirmed over several years. The report indicated that statutory consultation on the draft policy had concluded, and amendments had been made based on feedback received. The committee was recommended to approve the final draft of the policy and recommend its adoption by Full Council.

Licensing Update

An update on licensing policy and emerging strategic licensing developments was also scheduled for discussion. This included information on minor amendments to the council's Statement of Licensing Policy, which were approved by Full Council to ensure alignment with updated statutory guidance. Additionally, the report was to provide an overview of the Mayor of London's Strategic Licensing consultation, which proposes potential London-wide changes to the licensing framework. These proposals aim to foster a more consistent approach to licensing across boroughs, improve transparency, and strengthen partnership working, with a pilot anticipated to commence in Summer 2026.

Licensing Hearings and Enforcement Update

The committee was also set to receive an update on licensing and licensed premises enforcement and compliance activities. This report was to summarise licensing decisions made by the Licensing Sub-Committee between January and March 2026, covering new premises licences, variations, and reviews. It was also to detail key enforcement activities undertaken by the Licensing Processing and Licensing Enforcement teams during the same period. These activities included late-night premises visits, test purchase operations targeting underage alcohol sales, and assistance provided to Trading Standards in a significant counterfeit and illicit goods seizure. The report was expected to highlight the evolution of Ealing's late-night economy, noting an increase in late-night refreshment and shisha venues, and detail recent licence reviews for several off-licence venues. Furthermore, the update was to cover Welfare and Vulnerability Engagement (WAVE) and 'Ask for Angela' training provided to the licensed trade, aimed at enhancing safeguarding measures and promoting safety within licensed premises.