Hackney Pub Licence Compromise After Safety Fears

Howl At The Moon pub in Hoxton has reached a compromise with Hackney Council regarding its licence, allowing for increased outdoor capacity following objections from local residents. The revised licence permits up to 30 patrons to drink outside between 8pm and 10pm, and up to 20 to smoke outside after 10pm.

The application to Hackney Council had sought permission for more outdoor drinking and smoking. However, residents and a local councillor expressed concerns that the pub's patrons already obstructed pavements, creating dangers for pedestrians and making elderly residents feel intimidated. Jacqueline Jenkins, chair of the Ward Panel for Hoxton East and Shoreditch, described the plans as 'ridiculous' and stated that parents with buggies and users of mobility aids were being forced into the road.

Pub Manager Cites 'Archaic' Licence

Pub manager Connor Clark argued that the proposed changes would rectify an 'archaic' licence and help the business operate more efficiently. He explained that existing rules, particularly those limiting outdoor smoking to seven people after 8pm, were difficult to enforce and created operational challenges. Clark stated that the revised licence would allow for smoother transitions and keep patrons within designated licensed areas. He also clarified that all outdoor drinking would cease by 10pm.

The pub's current premises licence permits up to 20 people outside before 8pm, reducing to seven smokers at a time after that. The venue is also allowed four benches seating a maximum of 15 people. A conflict arose because the premises licence required furniture to be brought inside at 8pm, while a separate shopfront permit allowed it to remain until 10pm. The Metropolitan Police did not object to the application.

Compromise Reached

The licensing committee's decision allows for up to 30 people to drink outside using plastic cups between 8pm and 10pm. After 10pm, the outdoor smoking area will be limited to 20 individuals. A key condition of the new licence is the mandatory quarterly meetings between the pub management and local residents, a proposal to which Mr Clark agreed.

Councillor Kam Adams, representing Hoxton East and Shoreditch, supported the residents' concerns, noting reports of noise disturbances and blocked pathways. Mr Clark stated he had not received noise complaints since December 2025 and found reports of access issues upsetting, reaffirming his commitment to controlling the outdoor space.

Hackney Council's licensing committee is expected to issue its final decision on the application within five working days of the hearing.