The Licensing Sub-Committee of Barnet Council is scheduled to convene on Wednesday, 4th February 2026, to consider a new premises licence application. The primary focus of the meeting will be a report from the Licensing Manager concerning an application by Urban Leisure (BX) Limited for a new premises licence at Units 1 and 2, Plot 14, 37-41 Merchant Street, Brent Cross Town, London NW2 8BA.

New Premises Licence Application for Urban Leisure (BX) Limited

The committee will review a report from the Licensing Manager regarding an application for a new Premises Licence under section 17 of the Licensing Act 2003¹. The application has been submitted by Urban Leisure (BX) Limited for premises located at Units 1 and 2, Plot 14, 37-41 Merchant Street, Brent Cross Town, London NW2 8BA.

The application seeks authorisation for various licensable activities, including the exhibition of films, performance of live music, playing of recorded music, the sale or supply of alcohol, and the provision of late-night refreshment. The proposed operating hours for these activities extend into the early hours of the morning on certain days, with specific extended hours requested for notable days such as New Year's Eve and bank holidays. The premises are also proposed to be open to the public for extended periods.

A representation has been received from Steve Richardson, a Scientific Officer in the Assurance and Public Protection Department at Barnet Council. Mr. Richardson's representation focuses on the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance, citing concerns about potential noise and disturbance to nearby residential flats. He has proposed additional conditions to be attached to any licence granted, including requirements for regular information to local residents about events, a direct telephone number for noise complaints, and specific protocols for managing customer behaviour outside the premises, deliveries, lighting, kitchen extract systems, and refuse collection. Mr. Richardson has also suggested a trial period for the extended hours on notable days.

The committee will consider the application, the representations made, the Guidance issued pursuant to section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003², and the Council's Statement of Licensing Policy 2020³ to determine what steps are appropriate 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 committee may choose to grant the licence with conditions, modify the proposed conditions, exclude certain licensable activities, refuse to specify a premises supervisor, or reject the application entirely.

The meeting will also include a review of the Licensing Sub-Committee Hearings Procedure⁴, which outlines the framework for conducting hearings to ensure natural justice and a fair hearing.