Westminster Council prioritises table-service venues in new licensing policy

Westminster City Council has drafted a licensing policy that will prioritise venues offering table service over traditional bars where customers stand. The policy, which covers Soho, the West End and other nightlife areas, has drawn criticism from pubs, clubs and restaurants. The council said it is not banning standing but will favour establishments that reduce "vertical drinking" when granting new licences.

Single complaints trigger licensing reviews

The Globe pub on Baker Street has faced three licensing reviews since 2022 after a single resident complained about noise from patrons. The most recent review, in March, followed a complaint about "giggling" and customers "loitering" outside after midnight on weekends. The council imposed six conditions, including a requirement to publish managers’ phone numbers and enforce a dispersal policy to ensure patrons leave "quickly and quietly".

The pub, owned by Greene King, avoided further restrictions at the March hearing. Westminster Council said the conditions were necessary to address concerns raised by residents. A similar review was triggered for Walker’s of Whitehall, a pub popular with politicians, after neighbours complained about rowdy customers standing on the pavement.

Greggs blocked from 24-hour hot food sales

Greggs was refused permission to sell hot food 24 hours a day at its Leicester Square store after police raised concerns about crime and disorder. The Metropolitan Police, alongside Environmental Health, three local councillors and one resident, objected to the bakery chain’s plans. Greggs offered to employ security guards with body cameras, but the council rejected the application.

The company threatened legal action but reached a compromise with the council the day before a court hearing. Under the agreement, Greggs can sell sandwiches and sweet treats late into the night but not hot food like sausage rolls or bacon baps between 11pm and 5am. A council spokesperson said the decision was made to balance business needs with community safety.

Noise complaints lead to restaurant restrictions

Naroon, a Persian restaurant on New Cavendish Street, faced a licensing review after neighbours complained about noise from glass recycling after 11pm and "chef chopping" sounds. The restaurant, one of the most booked on TheFork, was told to limit outdoor activity, particularly on weekends. Council documents stated that residents had been "strongly affected" by the disturbances.

Westminster Council said the review was necessary to address ongoing public nuisances. The restaurant’s expansion to three sites in 2024 had increased its visibility, leading to more complaints. A council spokesperson said the conditions were designed to protect residents while allowing the business to operate.

What happens next

The draft licensing policy is under consultation. Residents and businesses can submit responses before the council finalises the document. The policy will apply to new licence applications and renewals. Existing venues may face reviews if complaints are made, as seen with The Globe and Naroon.

Westminster City Council said the policy aims to balance the needs of businesses with those of residents. A spokesperson told the *Evening Standard* that the council is not banning standing in pubs but will encourage venues to adopt measures that reduce noise and disruption.