The Licensing Sub-Committee was scheduled to consider an application for a new premises licence for Mestizo Market, located at 396 King's Road, London, SW10 0LN. The application sought permission for the retail sale of alcohol for consumption off the premises.

Application for a Premises Licence for Mestizo Market

The primary item scheduled for discussion was an application by Alvamex Limited for a new premises licence for Mestizo Market at 396 King's Road, London, SW10 0LN. The proposed activities included the sale by retail of alcohol for off-premises consumption, with proposed hours of operation from 08:00 to 23:00, seven days a week. The premises were described as a coffee shop on the ground floor, offering Mexican products and sealed alcohol, with a basement operating as a wholesale shop for Mexican products. The applicant, Alvamex Limited, proposed several steps to promote the licensing objectives, including maintaining strong management control, providing staff training, using CCTV, alarms, and lighting for crime prevention, installing fire safety equipment, keeping music and operations at a reasonable volume to prevent public nuisance, and employing the Challenge 25 policy to prevent the sale of alcohol to children.

The report pack indicated that three representations opposing the application had been received from local residents and a company representing residents. Concerns raised included potential disturbances and public nuisance during unsociable hours due to the sale of alcohol. Objectors also cited existing issues with noise and patrons congregating outside the applicant's other premises, Mestizo Restaurant and Margarita Bar, located on Park Walk. Further concerns were raised about potential noise disturbance from music, as the building was not considered soundproofed for hospitality venues.

The report pack outlined the steps the committee could take, including granting the application in full, modifying conditions, refusing to specify a designated premises supervisor, or rejecting the application. The committee was advised to consider the representations, the applicant's operating schedule, the council's Statement of Licensing Policy¹, and the Secretary of State's Guidance² when making its decision.