The Licensing (2003 Act) Sub-Committee of Newham Council granted a new premises licence for Tops Pizza, located at 951 Romford Road, Manor Park, E12 5JR. The licence allows for late-night refreshments to be served daily between 11:00 PM and 4:00 AM, with additional conditions imposed to uphold licensing objectives.

Tops Pizza Premises Licence Application

The Sub-Committee considered an application for a new premises licence for Tops Pizza, located at 951 Romford Road, Manor Park, E12 5JR. The application sought permission to serve late-night refreshments daily from 11:00 PM to 4:00 AM.

A representation was received from a local resident, Mehrunnisa Hussain, who objected to the application on the grounds of preventing public nuisance and crime and disorder. Ms. Hussain, who lives in an adjacent property, expressed concerns about the need for such late hours in a predominantly residential area. She cited issues of rowdy and scary behaviour, littering, broken glass, vomit on her forecourt, and customers parking motorbikes on her property. She also noted that many of her neighbours, who are not fluent in English, would likely be concerned but may not understand how to object.

The applicant, represented by Ahmed Noori, stated that the business had been operating since mid-January 2026 and had encountered no issues related to the concerns raised by Ms. Hussain. Mr. Noori explained that the business is takeaway and delivery only, with no indoor seating for customers to eat. He emphasised their commitment to maintaining a clean forecourt and working closely with neighbours and the council. He also highlighted that the business had invested his life savings and was keen to operate legally and responsibly.

The case officer, Colin Hunt, confirmed that no representations had been received from responsible authorities such as the police or environmental health. He provided context on other licensed premises in the vicinity, noting that several operate with late hours and some have conditions attached, while others, particularly older licences, do not.

The Sub-Committee carefully considered all submissions. They acknowledged the resident's concerns but were reassured by the applicant's commitment to working with the council and their willingness to accept additional conditions. The Sub-Committee concluded that the application should be granted with the following conditions:

• Staff will receive training every six months, including conflict resolution.
• The business will operate as a takeaway only between 11:00 PM and 4:00 AM.
• No unaccompanied children under 18 will be served after 11:00 PM.
• Food preparation will be prompt to minimise waiting times, with no engine idling, horns, or waiting outside the premises.
• Staff will monitor the exterior via CCTV and physical checks during licensable hours to ensure customers leaving, smoking, or eating outside do not cause excessive noise. Staff will proactively ask individuals loitering outside to leave quietly and quickly.

The Sub-Committee stated that they could not make assumptions about potential impacts but must base their decision on the evidence presented. They noted that the Licensing Act 2003 provides mechanisms for reviewing licences if objectives are not met. On the balance of probabilities, the panel was satisfied that the amended application with the additional conditions would not undermine the licensing objectives.

The full written decision, including detailed reasons, will be sent to the applicant within five working days. Parties involved have the right to appeal the decision to the Magistrates' Court within 21 days.