The Licensing Sub-Committee (3) of Westminster Council met on Thursday 4 June 2026 to consider a new premises licence application for Hyde Park. The application sought to increase the capacity for concerts and to amend existing licensing conditions.

Hyde Park, Serpentine Road, London, W2 2UH

The primary item scheduled for discussion was a new premises licence application for Hyde Park in relation to the British Summer Time (BST) concerts. The applicant, The Royal Parks Limited, sought to increase the maximum capacity for events from 64,999 to 69,999 attendees. This would allow for all nine concerts to operate at the higher capacity, whereas the current licence permits seven concerts at 64,999 and two at 49,999.

The application also proposed an earlier terminal hour for licensable activities on Sundays, moving from 22:30 to 22:00. All other permitted hours, licensable activities, plans, and conditions were proposed to remain the same as the existing premises licence.

The report pack detailed significant representations from various parties. The Metropolitan Police Service objected to the application, stating that there was insufficient detail in the operating schedule to promote the licensing objectives. The Environmental Health Service also raised concerns, suggesting that the proposed increase in alcohol supply and regulated entertainment could lead to an increase in public nuisance and impact public safety.

Several local residents and residents' associations submitted objections, citing concerns about noise, littering, dispersal of crowds, public safety, and the impact on residential amenity. Specific issues raised included overcrowded pavements, conflict between cyclists and pedestrians, public urination, and the potential for increased crime and disorder. The Knightsbridge Neighbourhood Forum requested strengthened and enforceable conditions, particularly regarding capacity increases, noise limits, dispersal, transport, and a review mechanism.

Conversely, several Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) and other organisations submitted letters of support. These included the Baker Street Quarter Partnership, Heart of London Business Alliance, Marble Arch BID, The Hyde Park Estate Association, New West End Company, and AEG Presents. Supporters highlighted the significant economic benefits of the concerts to the local economy, the importance of the events in generating income for The Royal Parks, and the generally well-managed nature of the events. Some supporters also noted the proposed earlier finish on Sundays as a positive step in addressing resident feedback.

The report pack also included detailed submissions from The Royal Parks, outlining their rationale for the increased capacity, which they stated was necessary to maintain financial sustainability and the international standing of the event. They provided information on their sound management policies, dispersal plans, and stakeholder engagement efforts, noting a significant reduction in sound complaints over recent years.

Discussions were scheduled to consider policy considerations, including the City of Westminster's Statement of Licensing Policy and guidance issued by the Secretary of State under the Licensing Act 2003. The core hours for various premises use types, as set out in the council's policy, were also referenced.