The Licensing Sub-Committee granted a new premises licence for Stir 777, located at 48 High Street, Kingston upon Thames, KT1 1HN. The licence allows for extended hours for regulated entertainment and the sale of alcohol, subject to a number of conditions.

Application for a New Premises Licence for Stir 777

The Licensing Sub-Committee considered an application for a new premises licence for Stir 777, located at 48 High Street, Kingston upon Thames, KT1 1HN. The application sought to extend the hours for regulated entertainment, specifically the playing of recorded music and performance of dance, from Monday to Thursday until 3:00 AM and Friday to Saturday until 5:00 AM. It also sought to extend the hours for the retail sale of alcohol for consumption on the premises from Monday to Thursday until 2:30 AM and Friday to Saturday until 4:30 AM.

The premises already held a licence for similar activities but with earlier closing times. The applicant, Stir 777 Limited, proposed to surrender their existing licence and operate under this new one, which also included a significant reduction in capacity from 220 to 65 persons. This reduction was agreed with the Metropolitan Police to ensure the premises would not be viable as a nightclub or late-night bar for a new operator.

Representations and Concerns:

• Responsible Authorities: The Council's Trading Standards Officer initially raised concerns regarding the protection of children from harm. However, these concerns were addressed through amendments to the applicant's operating schedule, and no further representations were received from Responsible Authorities.
• Other Persons: Six valid representations were received from the public, with four in support and two against the application. The objections primarily related to the prevention of crime and disorder and the prevention of public nuisance, specifically concerning noise and potential disturbances from extended late-night operations. One objector stated they were being woken up by noise at 4:00 AM on Thursdays, although the applicant stated no complaints had been received by the premises, Environmental Health, or the Police.
• Support: Representations in support highlighted the venue's positive contribution to the night-time economy, its impeccable record with the local authority and residents, and the lack of noise or anti-social behaviour associated with its operation. Supporters noted that the venue was discreet and did not cause disturbances, unlike other late-night establishments.

Decision and Conditions:

The Licensing Sub-Committee decided to GRANT the application for a new Premises Licence, subject to a comprehensive set of conditions. These conditions were drawn from the applicant's operating schedule and were designed to promote the four licensing objectives:

• Prevention of Crime and Disorder: This included maintaining a minimum of two SIA-licensed door supervisors at all times, active monitoring of queues, continued supervision outside the premises after closing, operation of a CCTV system with data provision to authorities, and restrictions on the sale of beer, cider, ale, and lager to cans or bottles only. The sale of alcohol was also stipulated to be ancillary to the provision of striptease entertainment and only whilst operating under a Sex Entertainment Venue Licence.
• Public Safety: Conditions included a maximum capacity of 65 persons, with customers being counted in and out. The premises must have a legal agreement for emergency egress and ensure the inward-opening final exit door is securely fixed open when in use. A risk assessment for public safety must be conducted and reviewed annually.
• Prevention of Public Nuisance: This involved implementing a Noise Management Plan, ensuring sufficient soundproofing to prevent noise breakout, conducting regular external perimeter checks, using a noise-limiting device for amplified sound, and promoting quiet dispersal of patrons through verbal requests, announcements, and signage. All windows and doors were to be kept closed during operating hours, except for access via the lobby entrance. Deliveries and waste collections were restricted between 6:00 PM and 7:00 AM, and wall-mounted cigarette bins were to be provided. A direct contact number was to be made available to local residents' associations for reporting disturbances.
• Protection of Children from Harm: Access for persons under 18 was prohibited at all times. A Challenge 25 policy was to be implemented for alcohol sales, requiring photographic identification for those appearing under 25. Notices were to be displayed at points of sale, and a refusals book maintained. All staff were to receive training on underage sales prevention, with refresher training every six months.

The Sub-Committee noted that while the extended hours could potentially be disruptive, the applicant had demonstrated a history of responsible operation and had agreed to significant conditions, including a reduced capacity and specific alcohol sales restrictions. The Sub-Committee also acknowledged that any future issues could lead to a review of the premises licence.