This week in Kensington and Chelsea:

Notting Hill Carnival: Council Refuses Alcohol Sales at Multiple Locations Amidst Public Safety Concerns

As the vibrant Notting Hill Carnival weekend approaches, Kensington and Chelsea Council's Licensing Sub-Committee has been working overtime to ensure public safety. This week saw a series of meetings where the committee made tough decisions on Temporary Event Notices (TENs) for alcohol sales, with several applications refused due to significant concerns about crime, disorder, and public safety. The council's stance highlights a clear priority: protecting residents and visitors, especially in the densely populated and high-traffic areas that define the carnival.

Ladbroke Grove and Portobello Road Locations Face Refusal

The Licensing Sub-Committee heard multiple cases concerning alcohol sales on Ladbroke Grove and Portobello Road, areas known for their intense congestion during the Notting Hill Carnival. In each instance, objections from the Metropolitan Police and the Council's Noise and Nuisance Team centred on the potential for overcrowding, dangerous queues, and the risk of crime and disorder.

• Flat B, 236 Ladbroke Grove: A Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for this address was refused. The Metropolitan Police objected, stating that any alcohol sales from this location on the parade route would create a choke point and increase the risk of crushing and disorder. PC Mark Perry argued that even with a risk assessment, the sheer number of people and the location made the event unsafe. The committee agreed, issuing a counter notice to prevent undermining public safety and preventing crime and disorder.

  • Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for Flat B, 236 Ladbroke Grove.

• 243A Ladbroke Grove: Another TEN for this location was refused. The police and Noise and Nuisance Team objected, citing the premises' position on the parade route as a primary concern. They argued that any alcohol sales would act as a magnet for crowds, creating dangerous pinch points. Despite the applicant's proposed measures, the committee found them insufficient to address the risks, leading to a counter notice being issued to uphold public safety and prevent crime and disorder.

  • Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for 243A Ladbroke Grove.

• Maramia Cafe, 274 Portobello Road: This TEN was also refused. The police objected based on past observations where the applicant had not adhered to previous undertakings, leading to queues and overcrowding on Portobello Road. The committee decided that allowing the event would undermine the licensing objectives of preventing crime and disorder and public safety, issuing a counter notice.

  • Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for Maramia Cafe.

Other Locations Refused Due to Safety and Congestion Risks

The council's commitment to public safety extended to other locations, with several more TENs being refused:

• Flat A, 152 Ladbroke Grove: The Licensing Sub-Committee considered a TEN for this address. Objections from the Metropolitan Police and Environmental Health highlighted concerns about congestion, crowd flow, and the lack of adequate safety plans. The committee was to consider proposed modifications by the applicant, but the core concerns about public safety and crime prevention in the carnival environment remained significant.

  • Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for Flat A, 152 Ladbroke Grove.

• 5-7 Oxford Gardens: A TEN for this location was refused. The Metropolitan Police and Noise and Nuisance Team objected, highlighting the proximity to sound systems and the potential for dangerous crushes and disorder. PC Jack Reason described the risk as a whirlpool of people if alcohol sales were permitted. The committee issued a counter notice, prioritising public safety and crime prevention.

  • Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for 5-7 Oxford Gardens.

• Golborne Mews: A TEN for a bar site here was refused. The Environmental Health team objected due to the location next to a sound system on a busy section of Portobello Road, posing risks to public safety and exacerbating congestion. Despite the applicant's attempts to mitigate risks, the committee sided with the environmental health concerns, issuing a counter notice to promote public safety.

  • Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for Golborne Mews.

• 119 Ladbroke Grove: This TEN was refused. The Metropolitan Police objected due to concerns about overcrowding and congestion on Ladbroke Grove, which could create a bottleneck and impede pedestrian flow. The committee issued a counter notice, concluding that granting the TEN would undermine the objectives of preventing crime and disorder and ensuring public safety.

  • Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for 119 Ladbroke Grove.

Bramley Road TEN Adjourned for Procedural Clarification

A Temporary Event Notice for 88 Bramley Road was adjourned. The committee needed to clarify procedural matters regarding a police objection, ensuring all parties had received proper notification. This highlights the importance of due process in licensing decisions, ensuring fairness and transparency.

• Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for 88 Bramley Road.

This week in Kensington and Chelsea:

Notting Hill Carnival Preparations: Licensing Sub-Committee Grapples with Safety Concerns for Temporary Event Notices

As Notting Hill Carnival approaches, the Kensington and Chelsea Licensing Sub-Committee has been actively reviewing Temporary Event Notices (TENs) for alcohol sales and entertainment. This week saw a series of hearings where public safety, crime prevention, and potential nuisance were the central concerns, leading to several refusals and the imposition of strict conditions.

Multiple Temporary Event Notices Refused Amidst Public Safety and Crime Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee held several hearings this week where Temporary Event Notices (TENs) were refused due to significant objections from the Metropolitan Police and the Council's Noise and Nuisance Team. These refusals underscore the council's commitment to public safety, particularly during the high-risk environment of Notting Hill Carnival.

• 100 Ladbroke Grove, W11 1PY: A TEN for the sale of alcohol off the premises at 100 Ladbroke Grove was refused. The committee issued a counter notice, stating that approving the event would undermine the licensing objectives of preventing crime and disorder and ensuring public safety. PC Mark Perry of the Metropolitan Police highlighted the dangerous location on steep, narrow steps on the main parade route, warning of overcrowding, crushing, and serious injury. The lack of a risk assessment or event management plan from the applicant, Helen Abraham, was a key factor in the decision. Philip Richardson from Environmental Health echoed these concerns, noting the unguarded steps and the potential for falls. The committee concluded that the location was simply not safe for selling alcohol during the carnival.

  • Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for 100 Ladbroke Grove.

• 204 Kensington Park Road, W11 1NR: A TEN for a Caribbean-themed rum bar at 204 Kensington Park Road was considered. While the applicant, Mr. David Joseph Sako, highlighted his 20 years of experience and a track record of zero incidents, the Metropolitan Police objected on grounds of crime and disorder and public safety. Concerns were raised about potential pinch points, overcrowding, and the increased risk of theft and assaults. The Noise and Nuisance Team also objected due to public safety concerns and inadequate event management plans. The committee was to make a decision, considering potential conditions such as no glass containers, SIA licensed security, and a Challenge 25 policy.

  • Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for 204 Kensington Park Road.

• 28 Lancaster Road, W11 1QP: A TEN for Jay Dees Catering Limited at 28 Lancaster Road was refused. The Metropolitan Police objected due to the premises' proximity to three sound systems in a congested area, raising concerns about overcrowding and crime. The applicant, Mrs. Jackie Johnson, stated the event would use the shop's forecourt and primarily sell food, with limited alcohol sales. However, the committee noted concerns about the adequacy of security (staff were not SIA licensed) and queue management. The decision to refuse was based on promoting public safety and preventing crime and disorder.

  • Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for Jay Dees Catering Limited.

• 12 Cambridge Gardens, W10 5UB: A TEN for the forecourt of a home at 12 Cambridge Gardens was refused. The Metropolitan Police and Noise and Nuisance Team objected due to concerns about public safety and crime and disorder. They argued that allowing alcohol sales from unlicensed premises during Carnival could negatively impact crowd dynamics and safety, potentially leading to increased crime and disorder. The applicant, Ms Elizabeth Aryeetey, had submitted a risk assessment, but the committee found the objections regarding public safety and crime prevention compelling, leading to the refusal.

  • Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for 12 Cambridge Gardens.

• 377 Ladbroke Grove, W10 5AA: A TEN for the sale of alcohol at 377 Ladbroke Grove was refused. The Metropolitan Police and Environmental Health objected on the grounds of undermining public safety and preventing crime and disorder. PC Jinelle Calddenes highlighted the location on the main parade route as a critical pressure point during Carnival, where gatherings could exacerbate congestion and increase the risk of safety incidents. The applicant, Mr Domenico Boggia, proposed an internal event with a maximum of 10 people, but the committee found he had not sufficiently demonstrated how risks would be managed to uphold licensing objectives.

  • Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for 377 Ladbroke Grove.

Temporary Event Notice for Pineapple Stall Refused

The Licensing Sub-Committee refused a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for the Pineapple Stall at 284 Portobello Road, London W10 5TE. The applicant, Mr Adam Jones, sought permission to sell alcohol off the premises during Notting Hill Carnival.

Both the Metropolitan Police and the Noise and Nuisance Team objected. PC Jinelle Caldinez of the Metropolitan Police raised concerns about public safety and crime prevention, highlighting the potential for increased congestion and bottlenecks on the busy Portobello Road. The police noted the absence of a risk assessment or event management plan, which they deemed crucial for managing queues and ensuring public safety in such a congested environment. The Noise and Nuisance Team echoed these concerns, emphasizing the potential for the temporary structure and queuing patrons to obstruct the public highway.

Mr Jones presented his case, explaining his artistic background and his intention to offer alcohol-free pineapple cocktails and a traditional pineapple punch. He acknowledged the need for proper procedures and apologised for any imperfections in his application. However, the committee ultimately decided to refuse the TEN and issue a counter notice, citing significant concerns about public safety and the prevention of crime and disorder, particularly given the location and the lack of a comprehensive risk assessment.

• Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for the Pineapple Stall.

Butter Bakery TEN Granted with Conditions

A Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for the Butter Bakery at 219 Westbourne Park Road, London, W11 was granted with conditions. The Metropolitan Police had objected on grounds of public safety and preventing crime and disorder, concerned that selling alcohol from a hatch onto the street would increase overcrowding and potential injury. However, the applicant, Mr. Mansour Naghdi Esfestani, stated that customers would be able to enter the premises to purchase alcohol, which would help manage numbers and queues. The committee decided to impose conditions rather than refuse the TEN outright, aiming to promote public safety and prevent crime and disorder. The specific conditions were not detailed in the provided transcript but would have been communicated to the applicant.

• Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for Butter Bakery.

Glint Express Dry Cleaning & Launderette TEN Granted with Conditions

The Licensing Sub-Committee decided to grant a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for Glint Express Dry Cleaning & Launderette at 341 Ladbroke Grove, London W10 6HA, with a number of conditions. The original application proposed selling alcohol from 8 am to 10 pm, but objections from the Metropolitan Police and Noise and Nuisance Team focused on public safety and crime prevention due to the location on the main carnival route. Mr Mohsen Rajabpour, the applicant, agreed to modify his proposals, including adhering to standard Notting Hill Carnival hours (12:00 to 19:00), implementing a strict Challenge 25 policy, and ensuring all sales were off-premises. Crucially, he agreed to suspend normal laundrette operations and implement enhanced security to control entry and prevent external queues. The committee determined these conditions were necessary to promote the licensing objectives.

• Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for Glint Express Dry Cleaning & Launderette.

This week in Kensington and Chelsea:

Notting Hill Carnival Preparations: Licensing Sub-Committee Addresses Temporary Event Notices

As Notting Hill Carnival draws closer, the Kensington and Chelsea Licensing Sub-Committee has been busy reviewing Temporary Event Notices (TENs) for alcohol sales and entertainment. This week saw several hearings where public safety and potential nuisance were key considerations.

Dizzier Generation Bar TEN Proceeds After Police Withdraw Objection

On Thursday, August 13th, the Licensing Sub-Committee met to consider an objection from the Metropolitan Police against a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for Dizzier Generation, a bar at Powis Terrace, for the Notting Hill Carnival. The objection cited concerns about crime, disorder, and public safety, particularly regarding the bar's location and potential impact on crowd flow.

However, PC Mark Perry of the Metropolitan Police informed the committee that the police were withdrawing their objection after receiving further information from the applicant. As the sole objector withdrew, the committee had no standing to make a decision, and the TEN could proceed. This outcome highlights how dialogue and the provision of further details can resolve potential issues before they reach a formal decision stage.

• Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for Dizzier Generation.

Temporary Event Notice for 27 Tavistock Road: Police Objection Highlights Congestion Risks

The Licensing Sub-Committee also considered an objection to a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for premises at 27 Tavistock Road, London, W11 1AS, for the Notting Hill Carnival. The Metropolitan Police objected due to concerns about the sale of alcohol potentially exacerbating congestion on Tavistock Road, a busy area during the carnival.

The police argued that the proposed location could create a bottleneck situation and hinder emergency vehicle access. They also raised concerns about the adequacy of the applicant's plans for managing queues and ensuring public safety. The committee was set to weigh these concerns against the applicant's submitted risk assessment and event management plan.

• Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for 27 Tavistock Road.

Maramia TEN Refused: Public Safety Concerns Override Previous Operations

On Tuesday, August 11th, the Licensing Sub-Committee refused a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for Maramia, located at 48 Golborne Road, London W10 5PR, for the Notting Hill Carnival. Objections from the Metropolitan Police and the Council's Noise and Nuisance team focused on public safety and the prevention of crime and disorder.

The police and noise team argued that serving alcohol from the street would create an unacceptable risk of overcrowding and disorder on the already congested Golborne Road. Despite the applicant's long operational history, the committee found that the proposed external sales would undermine the licensing objectives. This decision underscores the council's priority on public safety, especially in high-risk environments during major events, even when previous operations have not led to reported incidents.

• Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for Maramia.

Winter Event in Holland Park Granted Licence with Stringent Conditions

A premises licence application for a winter light art exhibition in Holland Park was granted by the Licensing Sub-Committee on Thursday, August 13th. The event, Glow at Christmas, proposed by GLOW Worldwide Limited, will feature illuminated artworks, recorded music, and alcohol sales for up to 35 days annually between November 15th and December 31st.

While the application received representations from the Friends of Holland Park and The Kensington Society, who raised concerns about noise, nuisance, and park tranquility, they did not formally object. The committee granted the licence subject to numerous conditions, including capacity limits (not exceeding 9,999), restrictions on alcohol sales (off-sales in sealed containers, consumption in designated areas), a comprehensive noise management plan, deployment of SIA-licensed security, and measures to protect sensitive areas like the Kyoto Garden. The licence is also tied to GLOW Worldwide Limited's concession agreement with the council, ensuring accountability. This decision highlights the council's approach to balancing significant public events with the need to protect local amenity and park heritage.

• Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for Holland Park Winter Event.

Planning Applications Committee Approves Major Redevelopment and Refurbishments

The Planning Applications Committee met on Tuesday, August 11th, to consider a range of planning and advertisement consent applications. Key decisions included the approval of a significant mixed-use development and several refurbishments.

Glen House, Old Brompton Road: Mixed-Use Development Approved

Planning permission was granted for the demolition of the existing building at Glen House, 125-133 Old Brompton Road, and the construction of a new ground-plus-six-storey mixed-use building. The development will feature a car showroom at ground and basement levels and office space on the upper floors. The decision was made subject to a legal agreement and additional conditions to secure the office space for Class E use only and remove permitted development rights for change of use to a dwelling house. Objectors raised concerns about the building's height and bulk, and access to adjacent areas, but the committee ultimately approved the plans, noting the improved design and public realm benefits.

• Read more about the Planning Applications Committee meeting for Glen House.

Other Planning Decisions

The committee also approved several other applications, including:

• 37 Addisland Court, Holland Villas Road: Planning permission granted for the addition of a lightweight pergola to a terrace, with revised drawings addressing concerns about appearance and visibility.
• 10 Pembridge Road: Advertisement consent granted retrospectively for fascia signs, door signs, display screens, and projecting signs, with conditions to remove flashing lights and limit illumination.
• 40 Holland Park: Planning permission and listed building consent granted for a basement, air source heat pump, roof replacement, and glazed link, despite concerns about impact on the Art Deco building.
• 123A Queen's Gate: Advertisement consent granted for a temporary shroud advertisement until February 2027.
• Harrods, 87-135 Brompton Road: Advertisement consent granted for a temporary façade wrap until January 2028, associated with repair works to the Grade II* listed building.
• 188A Fulham Road: Planning permission granted for the replacement of ancillary plant at the Virgin Active Health Club, with conditions to control noise and vibration.
• 10-12 Bina Gardens: Planning permission granted for a double mansard roof extension, deemed sympathetic to the Courtfield Conservation Area.
• 67 Golborne Road, 64 Golborne Road, 66 Barlby Road, and 66 Oxford Gardens: Planning permission granted for window replacements and fenestration works, preserving the character of the buildings and conservation areas.

These decisions reflect the council's ongoing work in managing development and ensuring that new constructions and alterations are sympathetic to the borough's character and residents' quality of life.

This week in Kensington and Chelsea:

Notting Hill Carnival Preparations: Licensing Sub-Committee Tackles Complex Event Notices

As Notting Hill Carnival looms, the Kensington and Chelsea Licensing Sub-Committee has been diligently reviewing Temporary Event Notices (TENs) for alcohol sales and entertainment. This week saw a series of hearings where public safety and potential nuisance were paramount concerns.

Acklam Village Bars: Safety Concerns Lead to Conditions for Carnival TENs

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Tuesday, August 4th, to consider Temporary Event Notices (TENs) for three bars at Acklam Village, 12 Acklam Road, London, W10 5QZ, during Notting Hill Carnival. The applicant, Mr. Damoy Robertson, sought permission for alcohol sales and entertainment.

However, objections were raised by the Metropolitan Police and the Environmental Health team. The police expressed concerns about public safety and crime prevention, particularly regarding the proposed layout which they felt could create a chicane for attendees on the already congested Portobello Road. Environmental Health echoed these worries, highlighting potential congestion and issues with the applicant's risk assessment and event management plan.

Mr. Robertson argued that his plans were designed for a safe and professionally managed event, citing a strong track record from previous years. He explained changes to the layout were for improved cable flow and that each bar would operate under a TEN for 499 people, keeping the total within Acklam Village's capacity of over 1,500.

After deliberation, the committee decided to grant the TENs subject to stringent conditions. These included:

• Capacity Management: Ensuring the total number of people in Acklam Village does not exceed 1,500, with each bar's TEN not exceeding 499, and implementing visual checks and potentially clickers for monitoring.
• Staggered Layout: Maintaining the staggered layout of bars and stalls to facilitate crowd flow.
• Barriers and Fencing: Continuing the use of Harris fencing and crowd barriers.
• Emergency Procedures: Ensuring clear emergency evacuation routes aligned with Notting Hill Carnival Limited (NHCL) plans.
• Coordination with Other Events: Ensuring plans align with other events in Acklam Village.
• Alcohol Sales: Ceasing alcohol sales by 19:00 on both Sunday and Monday.
• Security: Maintaining a minimum of four SIA-registered security personnel at all times.
• Communication: Establishing a clear communication plan between staff and authorities.

These conditions aim to balance the applicant's ability to operate with the council's commitment to public safety and preventing nuisance during the busy carnival period.

• Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for Acres (Bar 2).
• Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for Acres (Bar 3).
• Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for Acklam Village Bars.

Smoke and Pepper Licence Variation: Extended Hours Approved with New Conditions

A Licensing Sub-Committee meeting on Tuesday, August 4th, considered an application to vary the premises licence for Smoke and Pepper, located at 166 Earl's Court Road, London, SW5 9QQ. The applicant sought to extend late-night refreshment and opening hours to 3 am seven days a week, and to remove two existing conditions.

The application faced nine objections from local residents and councillors, including Councillor Linda Wade and the Earl's Court Society. Objectors raised significant concerns about potential public nuisance, crime, and disorder, particularly relating to noise, litter, and anti-social behaviour from delivery riders congregating in nearby residential streets.

The applicant proposed several additional conditions, including the presence of a manager after 11 pm, a maximum of 20 customers inside after 11 pm, and a written dispersal policy. They also agreed to join the Earl's Court Late Night Cafe Licence Group and to a new condition requiring external doors and windows to be kept closed after 11 pm to mitigate noise.

The committee, after hearing from all parties, retired to make a decision. The outcome, which would be communicated within five working days, aimed to balance the business's need for profitability with the community's right to amenity and safety.

• Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for Smoke and Pepper.

Gadsden House TEN Refused Amidst Public Safety and Crime Concerns

On Tuesday, August 4th, the Licensing Sub-Committee refused a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for Flat 4, Gadsden House, Hazelwood Crescent, London, W10 5DX, for the sale of alcohol during Notting Hill Carnival.

Both the Metropolitan Police and the council's Noise and Nuisance Team objected to the notice. PC Mark Perry, representing the police, highlighted concerns about the proposed location being too close to the parade route, potentially causing congestion and hindering emergency vehicle access. He also noted the proximity to sound systems, which could exacerbate crowd density. The police argued that the applicant, Mr. Marlon Bryan, had not adequately demonstrated how he would support the licensing objectives, citing a lack of detailed risk assessment, crowd management plans, and a street trading licence.

Philip Richardson from the Noise and Nuisance Team echoed these concerns, stating the location was in a congested area and the TEN would worsen this. Mr. Bryan, who has operated at Carnival since 2022 with no previous complaints, argued that his plans were consistent with previous years and that the objections were a blanket objection.

However, the committee, including Councillor Greg Hammond (Chair), Councillor Aarien Areti, and Councillor Ned Whitley, found that the applicant had not sufficiently demonstrated how the proposed event would uphold the licensing objectives in such a high-risk environment. The refusal underscores the council's commitment to prioritising public safety and preventing crime and disorder during major events.

• Read more about the Licensing Sub-Committee meeting for Gadsden House.

Other Matters

The Licensing Sub-Committee also met on Thursday, August 6th, to consider further Temporary Event Notices. While details for some of these meetings are still pending, the focus remains on ensuring that all events, particularly those during the busy Notting Hill Carnival period, operate safely and without causing undue nuisance to residents.

• Licensing Sub-Committee - Thursday 06 August 2026
• Licensing Sub-Committee - Thursday 06 August 2026
• Licensing Sub-Committee - Thursday 06 August 2026