The Licensing Sub-Committee of Kensington and Chelsea Council met on Thursday 09 July 2026 to consider an application for a new premises licence for Chill Since 93 at 61 King's Road, London SW3 4NT. After hearing representations from the applicant and local residents, the committee discussed the application and proposed conditions.

Application for a Premises Licence for Chill Since 93

The committee considered an application by Tocqueville Wellington Square Limited for a premises licence for Chill Since 93 at 61 King's Road, London SW3 4NT. The application sought permission for the sale of alcohol and late-night refreshments indoors.

Applicant's Case: Sarah Verdera, the barrister representing the applicant, highlighted six key characteristics of the proposal: the small scale of the premises, the staffing levels, the limited hours, the nature of the activities, the proposed meaningful conditions, and the work undertaken to address concerns. She emphasised that the premises would have a capacity of 50, with 15 staff members, and that the proposed activities would be alcohol sales only, with late-night refreshment provided indoors. Ms Verdera detailed several proposed conditions, including that alcohol consumption would only be permitted while seated at tables, that substantial food would be available, and that outside tables and chairs would be unusable after 10 pm. She also noted that the rear access door onto Wellington Square would be kept closed except for emergencies, directing all activity to the King's Road entrance. Mr Torben Anderson, an acoustics consultant, presented a report suggesting that noise impact would be minimal.

Objectors' Concerns: Numerous residents and the Markham Square Association submitted objections, primarily focusing on the potential for public nuisance, crime and disorder, and the protection of children from harm. Concerns were raised about noise from patrons leaving the premises late at night, particularly in the quiet residential area of Wellington Square. Residents cited the enclosed nature of the square and its acoustics, which they believe would amplify noise from raised voices, car doors, and taxis. There were also concerns about litter, public urination, and the potential for increased anti-social behaviour. The brand name Chill Since 1993, associated with the teenage-focused clothing brand Brandy Melville, raised fears that the premises would attract underage drinkers. Residents also pointed to the applicant's alleged non-compliance with licence conditions at a nearby premises, St George Coffee, which they claimed was operating as a wine bar in breach of its licence.

Conditions and Decision: The committee discussed a comprehensive list of proposed conditions, which included measures for CCTV, incident logging, staff training, noise management, and dispersal policies. The applicant agreed to many of these, though some points, such as the exact wording of conditions and the terminal hour for alcohol sales, were debated. The committee indicated that a summary decision would be sent within five working days, followed by a full written determination.