The Licensing Act 2003 Sub-Committee of Waltham Forest Council met on Friday, 12 June 2026, to consider an application for a premises licence for Sainsbury's at 433-443 High Road, Leytonstone. The committee decided to grant the premises licence with a specific condition regarding the alcohol content of beer, lager, and cider sold.

Grant of a Premises Licence for Sainsbury's, Leytonstone

The Sub-Committee granted a premises licence to Sainsbury's, located at 433-443 High Road, Leytonstone, E11 4JU, with a key condition attached. The decision was to GRANT THE PREMISES LICENSE with the stipulation that There shall be no sale of beer, lager or cider with an ABV% content exceeding 5.5% ABV, save for craft and premium beer, lager or cider. The Sub-Committee deemed this condition appropriate for upholding the licensing objectives.

The application, detailed in the Public reports pack, sought permission for the supply of alcohol for consumption off the premises between 07:00 and 23:00 daily. The store itself would be open to the public from 00:00 to 23:59 daily.

During the consultation period, four representations were received from other persons, ¹ raising concerns related to the licensing objectives of preventing public nuisance and preventing crime and disorder. These concerns were outlined in Appendix D of the reports pack.

One representation from Ann Pfeiffer, who resides at XXX Birch Grove, London E11 4YG, objected to the licence, citing concerns about increased street drinking, anti-social behaviour, and public nuisance from deliveries. Pfeiffer noted that the junction at Cathall Road is already busy with traffic and bus routes, and deliveries would pass close to a bus stop, potentially causing difficulties for pedestrians, especially those with mobility issues or impaired vision. The representation also highlighted potential noise disturbance for residents living above and opposite the proposed store, as well as the likelihood of increased litter. Concerns were also raised about children being exposed to alcohol advertising and increased vehicle traffic.

Deborah Stevenson, a resident at the Community Based Housing Association at XXXX Leytonstone High Road, also objected, stating that the site currently provides temporary housing for vulnerable residents. Stevenson argued that a 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM alcohol licence would be incompatible with a residential facility, leading to noise and foot traffic that would make the building uninhabitable. The representation also raised concerns about public safety and the potential negative impact on independent local businesses.

Helen Finch, from XXX Birch Grove, E11 4YG, also objected, citing concerns about increased anti-social behaviour due to the proximity of other alcohol retailers and the potential for discounted alcohol sales. Finch also raised issues regarding pavement congestion from deliveries, posing risks to pedestrians, and noise disturbances from early morning or late-night deliveries.

Lucy Jamieson, residing at XXX Matcham Road, E11 3LA, expressed concern that the proposed hours for alcohol sales would exacerbate existing issues with drinking and drug use in the area, particularly as the site is opposite an open area frequented by street drinkers. Jamieson also highlighted concerns about noise from delivery trucks and increased litter, stating that the South Leytonstone community already struggles with anti-social behaviour.

The Sub-Committee, chaired by Councillor Rosalind Doré, with Councillor Kay Isa and Councillor Richard Sweden also in attendance, considered these representations alongside the application. The final decision to grant the licence with the specified condition was recorded in the Decisions document. Parties have the right to appeal this decision to Thames Magistrates Court within twenty-one days of notification.