St Mary's Walthamstow granted alcohol license

Waltham Forest Council has granted St Mary's Walthamstow an alcohol license, permitting the sale of alcohol and film screenings from midday until 10:30 pm daily. The church's closing time has been extended to 11 pm under the new license, approved on September 11th.

Reasons for the License Application

The church stated that a full alcohol license is necessary to host more fundraising and outreach events. Representatives explained that the church regularly reached its annual limit of 15 temporary event notices, which allow for alcohol sales and extended hours for specific occasions. St Mary's, described as Walthamstow's oldest building and an independent charity under the Church of England, requires approximately £250,000 annually to operate. The new license aims to provide flexibility for hosting events to cover high overheads and raise essential funds.

In the past year, the church has hosted events such as BBC Radio 4's Gardeners' Question Time recordings, performances by the Norrsang Swedish choir and Forest Choir, a craft fair, and a screening of the documentary film Power Station followed by a discussion.

Objections and Conditions

Three objectors from the neighbouring Monoux Almshouse attended the licensing committee meeting to voice their concerns. Mary Fahey, a resident, submitted a formal objection on behalf of several residents, expressing worry that the events could impact their privacy and peace of mind. She noted that the area already experiences antisocial behaviour, though not linked to the church. Fahey stated objectors were not against events but wanted acknowledgement of potential 'fallout' from alcohol consumption.

The church representatives informed the committee that they had not received substantial complaints regarding noise or litter. They also committed to addressing concerns about litter by implementing a condition requiring rubbish collection after events. Volunteers already assist with litter in the church grounds.

To mitigate resident concerns, the council imposed a condition prohibiting the consumption of alcohol outside the premises after 9 pm. Additionally, councillors made a non-binding recommendation that the church limit smokers to eight individuals at a time, ensuring smoking areas are at least 20 metres from residential properties. They also recommended the church share its event schedule with residents of the almshouse on a monthly basis.

A petition supporting a three-day license over a seven-day license, reportedly signed by 200 locals, was not presented to the committee due to a clerical error, according to reports.

What Happens Next

St Mary's Walthamstow can now operate under the new license. The church is expected to share its event schedule monthly with residents of Monoux Almshouse as per the council's recommendation.