Shepherd's Bush shop denied alcohol licence after 112 resident objections

Hammersmith and Fulham councillors have refused an application for a new premises licence for AB Wines, located on Uxbridge Road near Shepherd’s Bush Market. The decision came after a significant number of objections from local residents and formal concerns from the council's licensing team and the Metropolitan Police.

The shop had previously had its premises licence revoked in December 2025. This action followed alleged breaches, including the purchase of alcohol reported as stolen from a local Tesco. An incident captured on CCTV showed an employee appearing to hand money to an individual who had allegedly just stolen cans of alcohol. The shop had stated the money was given to a beggar to calm the situation. The revocation decision was subject to an appeal, with a determination expected later this month following a magistrates' court hearing in October.

Objections and Concerns

The new licence application was submitted by Surendra Panchal on behalf of Dhruvikaben Vijaybhai Patel. It received 112 objections from residents, alongside letters of concern from the council's licensing team and the Met Police. Adrian Overton, Licensing Team Manager, noted the substantial local concern and the premises' history. He highlighted the risk of exacerbating existing street drinking and anti-social behaviour, stating that alcohol sold from off-licences can be consumed in public spaces beyond the premises' control.

PC Charlotte Bennett of the Met Police pointed to significant crime and disorder in the Shepherd’s Bush Green area, noting repeated reports of anti-social behaviour linked to the location, including street drinkers congregating nearby and outside the shop, and drug-related concerns. Residents' objections, detailed in a 124-page document, repeatedly cited concerns about anti-social behaviour, street drinking, drug dealing, public urination, litter, excessive noise, and intimidating behaviour. Some residents expressed fear of walking past the store at certain times, with female residents avoiding the bus stop directly opposite.

Applicant's Response and Decision

Surendra Panchal, representing the applicant, sought to differentiate the new applicant from the previous licence holder, highlighting Dhruvikaben Vijaybhai Patel's experience in retail management, including with alcohol. He argued there was no evidence of her involvement in past issues. Mr. Panchal suggested the premises could become a Londis franchise and indicated openness to additional conditions. However, residents, including Nigel Singh, questioned the relevance of the applicant's experience and argued that the location itself was the core problem, irrespective of the store's branding. Mr. Singh urged councillors to reject the application to allow residents to live peacefully. The Licensing Sub-Committee ultimately granted the residents' request and refused the licence.

The councillors' decision to refuse the new licence application was based on the evidence presented regarding past issues and the significant number of objections from the local community.