The Licensing Sub Committee D met on Tuesday 21 April 2026 to consider an application to vary a premises licence for Good Food at 26B Sydenham Road, SE26 5QW. The committee granted the application with agreed conditions.

Variation of Premises Licence for Good Food, 26B Sydenham Road

The committee considered an application from Craft 26 Limited to vary the premises licence for Good Food, located at 26B Sydenham Road, SE26 5QW. The proposed variation included changing the premises name to Craft Metropolis, altering the layout, and extending the licensable hours for the sale of alcohol both on and off the premises. The applicant, Oliver Meade, stated that the business operates as a craft beer cafe and shop, with a proven track record of zero complaints at their Penge venue over six and a half years. He emphasised their community-focused approach and a demographic that is not typically associated with anti-social behaviour.

However, the application received ten representations from local residents and one from a local councillor, with seven objections citing concerns about the prevention of public nuisance and the prevention of crime and disorder. Residents expressed worries about noise, smoking, and potential anti-social behaviour, particularly given the proximity of the premises to residential properties. Specific concerns were raised about noise and smoke entering residential buildings, and the risk of increased loitering and potential security issues at the entrance to adjacent residential blocks.

Councillor Chris Barnham, Chair of the subcommittee, declared that the application was granted with the conditions listed on page 38 of the committee agenda pack. These conditions included the provision of a designated smoking area to the rear of the premises, with limitations on the number of people allowed after 9 pm, and a condition that patrons would not be permitted to leave and re-enter the premises to smoke at the front. The applicant, Oliver Meade, expressed his gratitude for the decision and the positive experience he had with the licensing officers. The decision notice will be sent out within five working days.