Published: by Clare Eames
Last modified:
The East End pub had operated as a ‘strip pub’ until 2011 and was recently acquired by Super 8 Restaurants, a business well-known for the hugely successful Smoking Goat, and Kiln restaurants.
Super 8 Restaurants instructed Clare Eames, Partner at leading licensing lawyers, Poppleston Allen, to secure a new premises licence. The application to Hackney Council received stiff opposition from locals, many of whom regarded the adult entertainment club as part of the area’s rich history and were opposed to a multiple operator opening at the site. The Police initially objected but agreement was reached to modify the application withdrew their representation.
Despite the objections from local residents who attended the Licensing hearing the new licence was granted with operating hours of Midnight during the week and 1am Thursday to Saturday. In a rare case the Licence was not subject to a condition that alcohol be ancillary to food at all times, although agreement was reached that entry would be restricted to diners after 11.30pm on Thursday to Saturday.
Brian Hannon commented: “In what was a complex and interesting case both Clare and Helen worked really well in understanding all of the various stakeholder issues but kept in mind what success for the client was and delivered on that.”
Clare added: “The application of Hackney’s licensing policy was put through its paces with a sensible decision that gave protection to the community and the flexibility to Brian and Ben to operate their business. Whilst we made a small concession on operating hours, the new premises licence allows Super 8 Restaurants Limited to trade until midnight, Sunday to Wednesday, and 1am Thursday to Saturday, with close 30 minutes thereafter, and subject to conditions as offered by the Applicants.”
For further information on this or any other legal licensing matter contact Clare Eames on (020) 3859 7760.
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