This week in Hillingdon:

Street Trading Licence Renewal for Northwood Hills Supermarket Faces Objection

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Wednesday, 2 September 2026, to consider a street trading licence renewal for Northwood Hills Supermarket, located at 44-46 Joel Street, Northwood Hills HA6 1PA. The application sought to renew the licence for an area extending three metres from the shop front for the sale of fruits and vegetables, with proposed trading hours from 07:00 to 23:00 daily.

However, the application faced an objection from the council's Anti-Social Behaviour Response Team. Concerns were raised about potential obstruction of the highway, including delivery vans mounting the pavement, pallets and crates of produce left on public land, an open cutting station with knives and food waste, and trolleys left on the highway. These issues were cited as reasons for the objection, referencing potential breaches of the Council's Street Trading Policy[^1], particularly concerning public safety and the prevention of public nuisance or environmental damage.

The committee was tasked with considering the application in light of this objection, the council's Street Trading Policy, and the provisions of the London Local Authorities Act 1990 (as amended). The report indicated that the Sub-Committee had the discretion to grant the renewal, refuse it, or grant it with modifications such as a reduced trading area or hours, or with additional conditions. The outcome of this decision could impact the business's operations and the accessibility and appearance of the street for residents and shoppers.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Standards Committee Meeting Cancelled

The Standards Committee meeting, originally scheduled for Wednesday, 2 September 2026, was cancelled. No further information is available regarding the reasons for the cancellation or any rescheduled dates.

This week in Hillingdon:

Late-Night Entertainment Plans for London Empire Hotel Spark Resident Backlash

Plans to vary the premises licence for the London Empire Hotel at 233 High Street, Uxbridge UB8 1LD have ignited significant opposition from local residents and ward councillors. The application, submitted by London Empire Hotel Limited, seeks to reduce operating hours for music, alcohol sales, and late-night refreshment to between 11:00 and 02:00 daily, and remove the Exhibition of Films licence.

However, the proposed changes have been met with strong objections, including a petition with 260 signatures. Ward Councillors Terence Murray, Riley Russell, and Anil Taneja have voiced concerns that the proposed 02:00 finish time and a maximum capacity of 450 people could exacerbate existing issues with anti-social behaviour, street drinking, and late-night disorder in the area. They argue that social media advertisements suggesting a capacity of up to 1000 people are particularly worrying.

The Planning Authority and several interested parties have also raised concerns about potential increases in traffic congestion, parking problems, noise pollution, littering, and vandalism, especially during event dispersal. The Planning Authority has highlighted ongoing enforcement investigations into the unlawful use of the premises as a banqueting suite, citing significant harm to the highway and traffic gridlock.

The Licensing Sub-Committee, which met on Monday 10 August 2026, considered these representations alongside the applicant's proposed new operating schedule. This schedule includes measures such as a Challenge 25 policy, CCTV installation, and staff training, all aimed at promoting the four licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm. The outcome of this application will directly impact the quality of life for residents living near the venue.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Rahul Food & Wine Licence Review Continues in Private Session

A Licensing Sub-Committee meeting on Tuesday 11 August 2026 was dedicated to a resumed hearing concerning the review of the Premises Licence for Rahul Food & Wine, located at 3-3A Hillingdon Parade, Uxbridge Road, Hillingdon UB10 0PE. This hearing was a continuation from a previous session held on 29 July 2026.

The details of this particular item were considered in Part II of the meeting, meaning they were not made public. The report was classified as strictly not for publication due to containing exempt information, where the public interest in withholding the information was deemed to outweigh the public interest in disclosing it. This approach is permitted under the Local Government Act 1972 and is often used for sensitive personnel or commercial matters. The protocol for hearings under the Licensing Act 2003 and Gambling Act 2005 governs these reviews, ensuring a structured process for considering representations from various parties. The outcome of this review could have significant implications for the business and the local community.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Appointments Committee Discusses Key Children's Services Role

The Appointments Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to discuss the appointment of a crucial role within the council's Children's Services department: an Assistant Director of Commissioning & Sufficiency. This position is vital for ensuring that the borough has adequate and appropriate services in place for children.

The meeting was held in private, as is typical for personnel appointments, with the report pack being considered in Part II. This means that the specific details regarding candidates or the selection process were not publicly disclosed. The committee, chaired by Councillor Steve Tuckwell, Leader of the Council, included other senior councillors such as Councillor Gursharan Mand, Deputy Leader of the Labour Group, and Councillor Susan O'Brien, Cabinet Member for Adults, Children, Health & Care. The appointment of a senior officer in Children's Services directly impacts the support and resources available to vulnerable children and families in Hillingdon.

Link to the Appointments Committee meeting

This week in Hillingdon:

Council Grapples with Financial Monitoring Amidst Forecast Overspend

The Audit, Finance & Performance Committee met on Wednesday, 5 August 2026, to review the council's financial health, with a particular focus on the Period 2 (May 2026) Financial Monitoring Report. The report revealed a forecast net £584,000 overspend for the General Fund, a figure that, while offset by a substantial £10,000,000 budgeted for Risk and Contingency Provision, highlights the ongoing challenge of managing public finances.

This overspend could have real-world implications for services relied upon by vulnerable residents. For example, if savings targets are not met, it could mean reduced funding for essential support services, potentially leading to longer waiting times for those needing help. The report also noted a forecast £646,000 deficit in the Council Tax Collection Fund for the year, which will impact the budget in the 2027/28 financial year.

The committee was also set to discuss the Cabinet's Forward Plan, outlining future decisions, and review its own work programme. This includes planned discussions on governance, financial modernisation, and audit updates, all crucial for ensuring transparency and accountability in how council funds are managed.

Link to the Audit, Finance & Performance Committee meeting

Licensing Sub-Committee to Hear Crucial Premises Licence Review for Rahul Food & Wine

A Licensing Sub-Committee meeting on Tuesday, 11 August 2026, will feature a resumed hearing concerning the review of a Premises Licence for Rahul Food & Wine, located at 3-3A Hillingdon Parade, Uxbridge Road, Hillingdon UB10 0PE. This is a critical juncture for the business and potentially for the local community, as the outcome could lead to significant changes in the licence conditions or even its revocation.

The extensive report pack for this hearing, spanning over 100 pages, indicates the complexity and seriousness of the issues being addressed. The hearing protocol, governed by the Licensing Act 2003 and the Gambling Act 2005, ensures a structured process for considering representations from various parties, including the Licensing Authority, Ward Councillors, and interested parties.

Concerns raised in previous stages of this review have centred on the four licensing objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm. The outcome of this resumed hearing will be closely watched, as it directly impacts the operation of a local business and the amenity of the surrounding area.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

London Empire Hotel Licence Variation Sparks Significant Resident Opposition

The Licensing Sub-Committee faces a significant challenge on Monday, 10 August 2026, as it considers an application to vary the premises licence for the London Empire Hotel at 233 High Street, Uxbridge UB8 1LD. The application, which seeks to remove the film exhibition activity and reduce operating hours for music, alcohol sales, and late-night refreshment, has generated substantial opposition from local residents, ward councillors, and the Planning Authority.

A petition with 260 signatures, supported by Ward Councillors, highlights serious concerns about the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, and public nuisance. Issues raised include the venue's proximity to residential properties, proposed late operating hours, customer dispersal, noise breakout, and vehicle movements. The Planning Authority echoes these concerns, citing ongoing problems with traffic congestion, parking, noise, and anti-social behaviour.

The report pack also details a history of licensing issues linked to individuals associated with the London Empire Hotel, including past mismanagement at other venues that required police intervention. These past incidents raise serious questions about the applicant's ability to uphold the licensing objectives. The committee's decision will have a direct impact on the quality of life for residents living near the venue, particularly concerning noise and disturbance.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

This week in Hillingdon:

Street Trading Licence Dispute Highlights Need for Clear Policy and Evidence

A recent Licensing Sub-Committee meeting on Thursday, 30 July 2026, saw a heated discussion over the renewal of a street trading licence for Hayes Food Centre. The core of the dispute was an objection from the Highways Team recommending a reduction in the trading area from three metres to two metres, citing a borough-wide standard. This decision, if implemented, could significantly impact the business's ability to display its goods, which include fruit, vegetables, barbecues, coals, and bottled water.

The applicant's representative, David Brough, argued passionately against the proposed reduction. He highlighted that Hayes Food Centre had operated with a three-metre licence for over a decade without any complaints, questioning the evidence behind the Highways Team's objection. Mr. Brough also raised concerns about an emerging plan to standardise shop front licences at two metres across the borough, stating that the Hayes Town Business Forum, representing 67 small businesses, had not been consulted. He emphasised that the current display is exemplary and contributes positively to the street scene, and that a reduction would necessitate costly reconfigurations.

The Street Trading Policy of Hillingdon Council was central to the debate. While the policy states that shop front displays are assessed based on space and footfall, and a minimum of two metres clear passage must be maintained, the applicant argued that their long-standing licence and lack of issues should be considered. Councillor Kelly Martin expressed disappointment that the Highways officer was absent, as their objection formed the basis of the case. The committee acknowledged the applicant's contribution to the town centre, and the decision on the licence renewal was to be notified in writing and posted on YouTube. This case underscores the importance of clear, consistently applied policies and the need for robust evidence to support decisions that directly affect local businesses and their livelihoods.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Gaming Machine Increase Approved for Hollywood Bowl & Puttstars

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Monday, 27 July 2026, to consider an application to increase the number of gaming machines at Hollywood Bowl & Puttstars in Uxbridge. The application sought to raise the number of Category D gaming machines from 35 to 43, while keeping the five Category C machines unchanged.

The applicant's agent clarified that the increase refers to positions on machines, such as penny falls machines, rather than 43 separate physical units. This distinction is important as the Gambling Commission now categorises these by position. The Category C machines, located near the bar, are age-restricted and use facial recognition for age verification, while Category D machines have no age restrictions and are situated in amusement areas.

Concerns were raised about potential impacts on floor space, fire exits, and customer comfort, as well as staff's ability to identify problem gambling. The applicant assured the committee that installations do not compromise safety or customer movement and that staff receive age verification training. Warning labels for problem gambling support services like GamCare are present on all machines, and staff are encouraged to engage with customers. Crucially, there had been no complaints received by the Licensing Authority or the Gambling Commission regarding the premises' operation.

After deliberation, the Sub-Committee granted the application. This decision was made with regard to the Gambling Act 2005, the Gambling Commission's guidance, and Hillingdon's Statement of Gambling Policy 2025-2028. The committee was satisfied that the applicant demonstrated sound knowledge of the licensing objectives and that their proposed measures were sufficient to promote them. This decision allows for an increase in entertainment options at the venue, while adhering to regulatory frameworks designed to protect the public.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting

Local Plan and Waste Plan Updates Discussed by Select Committee

The Corporate Resources & Infrastructure Select Committee met on Wednesday, 29 July 2026, to discuss key strategic plans for Hillingdon's future development and waste management. The committee received updates on the Hillingdon Local Plan and the West London Waste Plan (WLWP), both crucial documents shaping the borough's long-term trajectory.

Hillingdon Local Plan: Shaping the Borough's Future

The committee was briefed on the ongoing update to the Hillingdon Local Plan. This plan will guide development in the borough for the next 15 years, replacing the existing plan adopted in 2012 and 2020. A Scoping Consultation, approved by Cabinet on 25 June 2026, was underway to gather essential feedback from residents and stakeholders on what the plan should encompass. This consultation is vital for ensuring the Local Plan reflects the community's needs and aspirations for housing, infrastructure, and environmental protection. The plan will include a spatial strategy, development management policies, and site allocations, with the consultation responses informing the Draft Local Plan. The estimated cost for this consultation was £3,000, funded from the Planning Service revenue budget.

West London Waste Plan: A Collaborative Approach to Waste Management

The committee also discussed the Proposed Submission of the West London Waste Plan (WLWP). This statutory plan is a collaborative effort involving Brent, Ealing, Harrow, Hillingdon, Hounslow, Richmond upon Thames, and the Old Oak & Park Royal Development Corporation (OPDC). The WLWP aims to manage waste across the region until 2041, covering household, industrial, commercial, and construction waste. Key elements include updated forecasts, safeguarded waste sites, and policies for planning applications related to waste management. The current WLWP, adopted in 2015, is considered outdated. The proposed submission version was undergoing public consultation from 4 August to 29 September 2026. The plan aims to ensure sufficient waste management capacity, with 21 sites in Hillingdon proposed for safeguarding. The consultation costs were estimated at £3,000, funded from the Planning Policy Service revenue budget.

Growth Agenda and Policy Review

The committee also reviewed the Hillingdon Growth Plan, a strategic framework for economic growth and regeneration. This plan focuses on leveraging Hillingdon's strengths, such as Heathrow Airport and the Elizabeth Line, to boost productivity and create inclusive prosperity. It is structured around three pillars: Innovate, Connect, and Thrive. Additionally, the committee discussed its policy review process and work programme, considering guidance on how reviews can be undertaken and identifying potential topics for future scrutiny.

These discussions are fundamental to how Hillingdon will develop and manage its resources in the coming years, impacting everything from housing availability to environmental sustainability.

Link to the Corporate Resources & Infrastructure Select Committee meeting

Review of Premises Licence for Rahul Food & Wine Scheduled

A Licensing Sub-Committee meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, 29 July 2026, to consider an application for the review of a Premises Licence for Rahul Food & Wine, located at 3-3A Hillingdon Parade, Uxbridge Road, Hillingdon UB10 0PE. This item was designated as Part II business, meaning it was intended to be considered privately by the Sub-Committee members. The report detailing this application was published in the public reports pack. The agenda outlined a specific protocol for the hearing, involving presentations from various parties, followed by deliberation and a decision. The report itself was not for publication due to containing exempt information, as permitted under the Local Government Act 1972 when the public interest in withholding it outweighs the public interest in disclosing it. The outcome of this review could have significant implications for the business and the local community.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting