An application for a new premises licence for SD Food & Wine in Hampton Court has been deferred by Richmond upon Thames Council's Licensing Sub-Committee following objections from local residents. The proposed off-licence, located at the Cardinal Wolsey, The Green, Hampton Court Road, East Molesley, faced scrutiny over concerns regarding public safety, crime, and potential disturbances.
The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Wednesday, 23 July 2025, to discuss the application. The sub-committee, chaired by Councillor Lesley Pollesche, included Councillors Jonathan Cardy and Anton McNulty-Howard. The sub-committee can grant the application, modify the proposed conditions, or reject the application in part or in full. Representing SD Food & Wine, Mr Panchal and applicant Surjit Singh Grover sought permission to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises from 8am to 11pm, Monday to Sunday.
Sumit Anand, the licensing officer, confirmed that the application was advertised as required and that two objections were received from local residents.
Mr. Panchal emphasised Mr. Grover's extensive experience in running off-licences since 2009, highlighting a clean record with no licensing breaches or underage sales. He also noted that conditions had been agreed with the Metropolitan Police to promote the licensing objectives, including staff training, a refusal book, and a Challenge 25 policy. Mr. Panchal stated that there were 42 conditions agreed with the police, aimed at robustly promoting the licensing objectives, as detailed on page 39 of the SD Food Wine LSC Appendices.
Councillor Anton McNulty-Howard raised concerns about the initial placement of the beer fridge on the floor plan, suggesting it was not easily visible from the counter, potentially increasing theft risk. Mr. Panchal agreed to relocate the fridge to the wine section to improve visibility.
Jerry Sheridan, a local resident, voiced concerns about public safety, anticipating increased traffic on Hampton Court Road and potential risks to pedestrians, especially children. He also referenced issues experienced near the Esso garage, raising concerns about potential crime and disorder. Mr Sheridan also raised a query with the planning department regarding the change of use for the Cardinal Wolsey, suggesting that converting a pub to a convenience store might require planning permission.
Stefano Kelly, a witness for Mr. Sheridan, echoed concerns about potential noise, disturbances from late-night drinkers, and litter, particularly near Bushy Park and a bus stop used by children. He also raised concerns about the sale of vapes and their potential influence on children.
Seema Khan, the council's legal advisor, clarified that vapes are not regulated by the committee and that concerns about the Esso garage should be reported to the licensing department. She also discussed the conditions agreed with the police and sought clarification on the percentage of the shop dedicated to alcohol sales. Mr. Panchal estimated that alcohol would account for no more than 20% of the shop's overall stock.
A point of contention arose regarding the accuracy of the floor plan, with discrepancies noted between the plan and the actual layout of the premises. Ms. Anand pointed out that the plan showed both an entrance and an exit door on the front of the building, whereas the Google Maps image showed only one door. Ms. Anand noted that the discrepancy between the floor plan and the actual premises might need to be addressed depending on the outcome of the application.
Ultimately, the sub-committee decided to defer the application for further consideration. The specific factors to be considered during this further review were not detailed in the meeting summary.
