The Licensing Sub-Committee of Redbridge Council is scheduled to consider an application for a new premises licence for AAA News. The committee will also review the procedure for licensing hearings.

Application for a New Premises Licence: AAA News

The main focus of the meeting is expected to be the application for a new premises licence for AAA News, located at 1035 High Road, Chadwell Heath, Romford, RM6 4AU. The applicant, Naveen Kumar Ramesh, is seeking authorisation for the retail sale of alcohol for consumption off the premises. The proposed hours for the sale of alcohol are Monday to Sunday, from 07:00 to 23:00, with the premises open to the public from 06:00 to 23:00 daily.

The report pack indicates that the applicant has proposed a schedule of conditions to promote the four licensing objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm. The Licensing Enforcement Team has also agreed on additional conditions with the applicant.

However, the application has received significant opposition. Fifteen individual representations have been lodged, along with a petition signed by 72 individuals. These objections are based on concerns that granting the licence would negatively impact all four licensing objectives. Specific concerns raised by objectors include potential increases in anti-social behaviour, loitering, noise, litter, and a negative impact on the safety and well-being of children attending the nearby mosque and educational facilities. The proximity of the proposed premises to the Chadwell Heath Muslim Centre¹ is a recurring theme in the objections.

The committee will need to consider these representations alongside the applicant's proposals and the council's Statement of Licensing Policy². The report outlines the council's approach to applications, with particular emphasis on protecting children from harm and preventing public nuisance. The policy recommends the Challenge 25 scheme³ for age verification and suggests that premises should typically close 30 minutes after the terminal hour for licensable activities. The proposed hours for AAA News extend beyond the framework hours for off-licensed premises in the Chadwell Heath area as outlined in the council's policy.

The committee will be guided by the Statutory Guidance issued by the Home Office under Section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003⁴, which provides advice on how licensing authorities should carry out their functions.

Procedure for Licensing Hearings

The committee will also review the procedure for licensing hearings. This document outlines the steps that will be followed during hearings, including the order in which parties will present their cases and the process for summing up and decision-making. This procedure is designed to ensure a fair and transparent process for all involved.