The Licensing Sub-Committee granted a new premises licence for 92 High Street, Hampton Hill, subject to various conditions. The meeting was convened and then adjourned due to the absence of the legal advisor, reconvening on 6 November 2018.

New Premises Licence for 92 High Street, Hampton Hill

The Licensing Sub-Committee granted a new premises licence for 92 High Street, Hampton Hill, TW12 1NY, which will be known as The Beech House. The applicant, Oakman Inns, sought permission to sell alcohol for consumption on and off the premises from 8 am to 11 pm Monday to Wednesday, 8 am to 11:30 pm Thursday to Saturday, and 8 am to 10:30 pm on Sundays. Late-night refreshment was also requested from 11 pm to 11:30 pm Monday to Saturday.

The application was met with objections from local residents, primarily concerning the early sale of alcohol and potential noise and nuisance from smokers. Mr Jolyon Poole, representing thirteen residents living in flats above the premises, expressed concern that the 8 am alcohol sales would coincide with the opening of nearby businesses like The Little Gym and a GP surgery, and that smokers congregating outside could intimidate residents. He suggested a 10 am start for alcohol sales would be more appropriate. Councillor Matthew Hull also raised concerns about the proximity to the children's gym and GP surgery, noting that a nearby pub, The Bloated Mallard, did not serve alcohol until midday.

The applicant's solicitor, Mr Craig Baylis, explained that alcohol sales between 8 am and 10 am would be strictly ancillary to a substantial meal, such as breakfast or brunch, and not available as standalone drinks. He highlighted that the new establishment would focus heavily on food, with an average spend of £25 per head. Mr Baylis also stated that the company had invested significantly in the premises and aimed to create a different atmosphere from the previous occupant, The Refectory.

Following discussions and the adjournment, the applicant agreed to several additional conditions. These included directing smokers to an area outside the railings to the immediate left of the building, ensuring the patio area would be kept clear before 10 am and not used after 10 pm, and that customers would not be permitted to take glassware off the premises. The applicant also offered to provide the premises' manager's telephone number to local residents for direct contact regarding any issues.

The Sub-Committee determined that the conditions offered by the applicant, including those agreed upon during the hearing, were appropriate and proportionate to promote the licensing objectives. They were satisfied that these conditions fully addressed concerns regarding public nuisance, the sale of alcohol, and the behaviour of customers. The decision to grant the licence was made subject to these conditions, detailed in the attached Schedule. The Sub-Committee did not consider it necessary to impose further conditions related to the proximity of the baby gym, school, or GP surgery.