At the request of the Chair, Mr Nick Kemp, Licensing Officer, introduced the report which detailed the new application for a premises license for PFC2 110 Whitechapel Road, London E1 1JL. It was noted that objections had been received by the Metropolitan Police and Planning Enforcement.

At the request of the Chair, Mr Imam Mohammed, the applicant’s interpreter explained that the reason why they wanted a late night refreshments licence was because most of the business was during night time, and that he had measures in place to keep things in control, he would install CCTV cameras and would also employ SIA registered security/door supervisors to prevent crime and disorder. Mr Mohammed emphasised that the business was only busy during the night and in order to continue with the business it needed to be opened till late, otherwise he would not be able to make a profit. He explained that there was no history of problems associated the premise and therefore requested Members to grant the license.

Mr Alan Cruickshank, Metropolitan Police referred to his statement on page 111 of the agenda and highlighted the incidents which had taken place in the premises. Mr Cruickshank stated that the hours were excessive and would have a detrimental effect on the area. As late night openings would often attract people who are in high spirits, under the influence of alcohol who by nature would be loud and attract anti-social behaviour.

Mr Andrew Dickson, Planning Enforcement Officer referred to his statement on page 119 of the agenda and explained that Planning did not support the application to extend their opening hours as it would cause a serious public nuisance to surrounding residential occupiers far later into the evening and morning then what currently occurred.

In response to questions the applicant stated that the reason why the premises was open outside the opening hours was because staff were cleaning up and were unable to get customers out as they are often hostile and demand food. He accepted the fact that the premises had been opened outside opening hours and apologised for this.

The Chair advised that the Sub Committee would at 7.05pm adjourn to consider the evidence presented. The Members reconvened at 7.20pm. The Chair reported that;

Having heard the uncontested evidence from the Police, it was noted that Mr Dudu Miah, applicant, is aware of his licensing hours. Despite this, in the run up to his application and following his application, he had opened outside of licensing hours. There had also been assaults in the premises when the premises had been unlawfully open.

Furthermore, Mr Miah’s explanation as to why the premise was open at 04:20 hours was incredulous. The application was refused as it was not considered that the crime and disorder licensing objective would be met.

Members also do not consider that it is appropriate to grant a licence where an applicant has shown a blatant disregard for licensing laws. The decision was unanimous.

RESOLVED

That the new application for the premises license for PFC2, 110 Whitechapel Road, London E1 1JL be REFUSED.