Ajet E&E restaurant granted alcohol licence after noise objections

A new Ethiopian and Eritrean restaurant, Ajet E&E, has been granted an alcohol licence by Hammersmith and Fulham Council, despite objections from council officers and a local resident. The restaurant, located on Bloemontain Road near the White City Estate, will be able to sell alcohol but with restricted hours.

Concerns over noise and behaviour

The council's Noise and Nuisance team lodged an objection, citing concerns that the commercial activity and alcohol consumption could lead to disturbances for nearby residents, particularly during late hours. George Christian, a Nuisance Investigator, wrote that the application's proposed hours overlapped with commonly accepted sleeping times for residential properties.

A resident also submitted an objection, expressing worries about potential anti-social behaviour. This resident highlighted the proximity of schools and the Queen's Park Rangers stadium as factors contributing to their concerns.

Owner highlights business necessity

Semira Ali, representing Ajet E&E Restaurant Ltd, emphasised that the ability to sell alcohol is crucial for the restaurant's financial viability. She stated that a substantial amount of money had been invested in fitting out and establishing the business, with the understanding that alcohol sales would be permitted.

Ms Ali communicated that had she known alcohol sales would not be realistically obtainable, her decision to lease the premises and invest would have been materially affected. She assured the council she would work with authorities and train staff to prevent issues.

Licence granted with reduced hours

The Licensing Sub-Committee considered the application, which had already seen amended hours proposed following discussions with the police. Initially, the restaurant sought to sell alcohol until 10pm Monday to Friday, 2am on Saturdays, and midnight on Sundays. These were later revised to midnight on Saturday and 11pm on Sunday.

Following deliberations, the committee approved the licence but imposed further reductions. Alcohol sales will now be permitted from 11:30am to 9:30pm from Monday to Thursday and on Sundays. On Fridays, sales can continue until 10pm, and on Saturdays until 11pm. The premises would remain open for half an hour after alcohol sales cease on weekends.