The Licensing Panel of Harrow Council met on Tuesday 13 February 2024 to consider an application for a new premises licence for IZZY FOOD CENTRE. The panel heard representations from the applicant and numerous objectors before making a decision on the application.

Application for New Premises Licence for IZZY FOOD CENTRE

The Licensing Panel considered an application for a new premises licence for IZZY FOOD CENTRE, located at 380 Kenton Road, Harrow, HA3 8DP, which would permit the sale of alcohol off the premises 24 hours a day. The panel heard from the applicant's representative, who stated that the business would be a convenience store for the local neighbourhood, with investment in its layout and design to meet neighbouring standards and create employment. The applicant assured the panel that measures were in place to promote the licensing objectives, including the adoption of Challenge 25 ¹ policies, an experienced Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS), and agreed conditions with licensing and police authorities. Data on low crime and anti-social behaviour (ASB) in the vicinity was also presented.

However, numerous objectors, including local residents and councillors, raised concerns based on the four licensing objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, the prevention of public nuisance, the protection of children from harm, and public safety. Their representations focused on potential increases in street drinking, littering, drug use, loitering, noise, fly-tipping, and public urination, particularly during late hours. Concerns were also raised about the capacity of local resources to manage minor ASB and littering, the potential for underage drinking and intoxicated customers to purchase alcohol at all hours, and the ability of the DPS to effectively supervise the premises 24/7 given other commitments. Objectors felt that the proposed licence was inappropriate for the location and would disturb the tranquillity of the area.

The panel noted that while representations were made regarding commercial need, planning, parking, traffic, and proximity to a temple, these were considered irrelevant to the licensing legislation. No representations were made by responsible authorities, but the licensing authority and police had agreed conditions with the applicant.

During the hearing, the applicant responded to questions regarding staff training, confirming all staff would be trained to level one in responsible alcohol retailing. They detailed their CCTV system, comprising 20 high-quality cameras, and explained that spirits would be kept behind the counter, with beers in a fridge, and that single cans would not be sold. Security measures included a contract with VeriSure for a panic button and plans for two staff members on site, one at the till and one stationed outside as a strong guy. The applicant could not provide details on research into unreported incidents, stating reliance on responsible authorities for such information, and confirmed that their other sites did not operate 24 hours.

The panel also heard that the nearby temple's opening hours were 6 am-11:30 am and 3:30 pm-8 pm, with activities extending to 10 pm on most nights. A local Cost Cutter store, which closes at 10 pm, holds a licence to sell alcohol from 6 am to 1 am.

The meeting was attended by Councillor Matthew Goodwin-Freeman (Chair), Councillor Janet Mote (Portfolio Holder for Community & Culture), and Councillor Natasha Proctor (Deputy Leader of the Labour Group). The minutes of this meeting can be found in the Printed minutes Tuesday 13-Feb-2024 18.30 Licensing Panel.doc and Printed minutes Tuesday 13-Feb-2024 18.30 Licensing Panel.pdf.