The Licensing Sub Committee of Tower Hamlets Council met on Wednesday 12 August 2026 to consider two Temporary Event Notices (TENs). The committee decided to refuse to issue a counter-notice for a TEN for A Portuguese Love Affair on Hackney Road, allowing the event to proceed, and to issue a counter-notice, refusing a TEN for Island Roots Collective Studio on Hancock Road.

Temporary Event Notice for A Portuguese Love Affair, 324-326 Hackney Road, E2 7AX

The Sub-Committee considered a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) for A Portuguese Love Affair, located at 324-326 Hackney Road, E2 7AX, which sought to allow the sale of alcohol and provision of regulated entertainment in an external area of Ion Square Park on Saturday 15 August 2026, from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Environmental Health had objected to the TEN, citing two previous complaints of loud amplified music and noise from speakers during a TEN on 1 August 2026. Nicola Cadzow, an Environmental Health Officer, stated that allowing the event to proceed could lead to further complaints and undermine the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance.

Camila Mairos Lutas, representing the premises licence holder, Olga Cruchinho, argued that A Portuguese Love Affair, a women-led and queer-led business operating for 13 years, had a strong community record and had been unfairly blamed for noise issues in the past. She highlighted that council officers had not identified a noise problem during a previous event on 8 August and that the music had finished at the agreed time. Ms Lutas requested that the committee consider proportionality and evidence, noting that the proposed event was a modest celebration for the business's anniversary.

The Sub-Committee discussed the clarity of the area to be covered by the TEN, with Councillor Martin Parker raising concerns about the definition of the licensed area. However, after hearing from the applicant, the committee was satisfied that the boundaries could be made clear. Regarding the noise allegations, the Sub-Committee found there was insufficient evidence of actual public nuisance, beyond the complaints received. They noted the modest hours sought and the fact that an out-of-hours noise officer had visited on 1 August and found the event was winding down without reported issues.

Ultimately, the Sub-Committee unanimously decided to refuse to issue a counter-notice, allowing the TEN to proceed. They did, however, stress the importance of the premises user having a clear method for ensuring permitted numbers were not exceeded, suggesting the use of wristbands.

Temporary Event Notice for Island Roots Collective Studio, 30 Hancock Road, E3 3DA

The Sub-Committee also considered a TEN for Island Roots Collective Studio at 30 Hancock Road, E3 3DA, which proposed an after carnival party/j'ouvert party from 6:00 PM on Sunday 30 August to 2:00 AM on Monday 31 August 2026. The application included the sale of alcohol, late-night refreshment, and music. Objections were raised by Environmental Health and the Metropolitan Police.

Nicola Cadzow, Environmental Health Officer, objected due to the event's location in an open yard within an industrial estate close to residential properties, the late hours, and concerns about noise breakout and potential anti-social behaviour. PC Donna Willcox of the Metropolitan Police also objected, initially supporting the concept but becoming concerned after reviewing the location and noting a lack of parking and proximity to residents. PC Willcox highlighted unanswered questions regarding event management plans, risk assessments, and landowner permission. She expressed concern that an unticketed event for up to 300 people could lead to disorder and public nuisance, especially with amplified music until 2:00 AM.

Joelle, co-organiser and representative for applicant Kenrick Cuffy, apologised for the late submission of documentation and explained her inexperience with TEN applications. She stated that security would be present, and a one in, one out system would manage numbers. Joelle mentioned that the landowner had authorised the use of the yard, as Mr Cuffy has a studio on the premises. She also noted that a local resident had been informed and would help distribute leaflets. Joelle explained that the outdoor music would cease at midnight, with celebrations continuing indoors until 2:00 AM.

The Sub-Committee shared the concerns raised by the responsible authorities. They noted the highly residential nature of the area and the significant risk of public nuisance from an open-air event for up to 300 people, particularly with alcohol and amplified music. The committee also considered the applicant's admission of inexperience and the insufficient controls proposed, which they believed would likely undermine the licensing objectives.

Consequently, the Sub-Committee unanimously decided to issue a counter-notice, refusing the TEN for 30 Hancock Road.