The Licensing Sub-Committee of Redbridge Council was scheduled to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) application for Melin Enterprises Ltd. The meeting's agenda also included a review of the procedure for licensing hearings.

Temporary Event Notice for Melin Enterprises Ltd

The committee was scheduled to consider a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) submitted by Melin Enterprises Ltd, located at 692-694 Chigwell Road, Woodford Green, IG8 8AL. The application sought to extend the licensable activities of the premises, which include the sale of alcohol, regulated entertainment, and late-night refreshment, beyond midnight on New Year's Eve into the early hours of 1 January 2022.

The report pack indicated that objections to the TEN had been received from the Metropolitan Police Licensing Team and the London Borough of Redbridge Street Enforcement Team. Both objections raised concerns that granting the TEN would undermine the licensing objectives related to the prevention of crime and disorder and the prevention of public nuisance.

The Redbridge Council's Noise/ASB Team detailed a history of noise complaints against Melin, stating that the venue had not been cooperative in addressing these issues. They expressed concern that extending the hours would lead to further complaints about loud music, anti-social behaviour from departing customers, and noise from vehicles. The team also noted that a previous TEN application for the same date had been rejected by the licensing committee for similar reasons.

The Metropolitan Police also highlighted previous breaches of COVID Regulations by the premises, which led to the revocation of their licence on 19 January 2021, although an appeal was pending. They reiterated concerns about public nuisance and the prevention of crime and disorder, citing the potential for increased alcohol consumption leading to violence, and issues arising from patrons congregating due to limited transport links. The police also pointed out that the current application was very similar to a previously rejected one, with only minor changes to the number of door staff and the maximum capacity.

The report pack outlined the procedure for licensing hearings, which would involve the presentation of the case by the applicant and any responsible authorities making representations, followed by questioning and summing up before the Sub-Committee made a decision in private. The report recommended that the Sub-Committee decide whether to allow the temporary event to take place or to issue a counter notice.

Procedure for Licensing Hearings

The committee was also scheduled to review the Procedure for Licensing Hearings as outlined in the report pack. This procedure details the steps to be followed during a hearing, including the presentation of factual summaries, the order of evidence from the applicant and responsible authorities, and the process for summing up before a private decision is made.