The Licensing Sub-Committee of Croydon Council was scheduled to consider an application for a premises licence for a fast-food outlet. The meeting's agenda included the appointment of a chair, apologies for absence, and the disclosure of interests. The primary item for discussion was an application for a premises licence at 152 Wickham Road, Croydon, CR0 8BF, which had attracted numerous representations from local residents.

Licensing Act 2003 - Application for a Premises Licence at 152 Wickham Road, Croydon, CR0 8BF

The Licensing Sub-Committee was scheduled to determine whether to grant a premises licence for 152 Wickham Road, Croydon, CR0 8BF, trading as Morleys Fried Chicken. The application sought permission for the provision of late-night refreshment between Sunday and Thursday from 11:00 pm until 00:30 am the following morning, and on Friday and Saturday from 11:00 pm until 01:00 am the following morning.

The applicant, SJM and R pvt ltd, proposed operating hours that extended significantly beyond those of other businesses in the predominantly residential area. This application had generated considerable public interest, with 42 representations submitted by local residents and Councillor Sue Bennett. The core of these objections centred on concerns related to the four licensing objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm.

Residents expressed significant worries about increased noise from customers congregating outside the premises, vehicle-related disturbances, littering, and anti-social behaviour, particularly during unsociable hours. Many highlighted that the surrounding streets, such as Barmouth Road, are residential and home to young families, and that existing commercial premises in the vicinity close by 11:00 pm. The proposed late hours were seen as out of keeping with the character of the area and likely to exacerbate existing parking pressures.

The report pack detailed the applicant's proposed operating schedule and the steps they intended to take to promote the licensing objectives. These included maintaining CCTV, training staff, keeping an incident register, and displaying signage to encourage customers to be considerate of neighbours. The applicant also stated they do not sell alcohol and do not provide adult entertainment.

The Council's Statement of Licensing Policy was also relevant to the discussion. This policy outlines the Council's approach to licensing applications, emphasising the promotion of the four licensing objectives and considering the impact on the local environment and community. The policy also addresses cumulative impact assessments, which are used in areas where a high density of licensed premises may lead to problems.

The report pack also included proposed conditions for the licence, suggested by the Pollution Team, to mitigate potential noise impacts on nearby residents. These included managing patrons to minimise noise from exiting and entering the premises, taking precautions to prevent noise nuisance, and displaying signage requesting customers to leave quietly.

The agenda also indicated that the press and public might be excluded from the meeting for certain items of business under Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972, due to the likely disclosure of exempt information.