The Licensing (2003 Act) Sub-Committee of Newham Council granted a new premises licence for Sweets Town, located at 594 Barking Road, Plaistow, E13 9JY. The licence allows for late-night refreshments between 11:00 PM and 4:00 AM daily, with the premises opening from 3:00 PM to 4:00 AM. The decision was made after considering representations from local residents and the applicant.

New Premises Licence for Sweets Town

The committee granted a new premises licence to Sweets Town Plaistow Ltd for their establishment at 594 Barking Road, Plaistow, London E13 9JY. The licence permits late-night refreshment activities from 11:00 PM to 4:00 AM, seven days a week, with the premises opening from 3:00 PM to 4:00 AM.

During the meeting, Councillor Tonii Wilson, Chair of the Licensing Committee, presided over the proceedings. The application was presented by Steve Jackson, Licensing Team. The applicant, Yaseen Feroz, owner of Sweets Town, and his business partner Alvina, were present to make their case.

Representations were received from a local business owner/resident and another resident, who raised concerns regarding crime and disorder, and the prevention of public nuisance. These concerns primarily focused on potential issues arising from late-night operations, including noise, littering, and obstruction of pavements by delivery vehicles.

Mr. Feroz explained that Sweets Town & Grill is a dessert and hot food shop, not solely a chicken shop, and that they prepare fresh food. He highlighted that the extended hours are sought to cater to a demographic that orders food after 11:00 PM, including those working night shifts or returning from work. He stated that operating under Temporary Event Notices (TENs) had not resulted in any reported issues with littering, anti-social behaviour, or noise complaints. Mr. Feroz also detailed plans to manage deliveries using their own drivers with cars, rather than motorbikes, to minimise noise and ensure food quality. He assured the committee that he takes personal responsibility for maintaining the cleanliness of the area outside the shop and has a contract with Newham Council for waste collection.

The committee noted that the premises had a previously suspended licence for a restaurant, which was suspended due to non-payment of annual fees. The applicant had been operating under TENs, having used their full 21-day allocation for the year, with operating hours typically until 3:00 AM. No objections were raised by responsible authorities during these TENs.

After deliberation, the subcommittee decided to grant the licence with conditions. The full decision letter, including the reasons for the decision, 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.