Plans for a new cocktail bar in Bruton Place, Westminster, have met with objections from local residents, raising concerns about over-commercialisation and potential disturbances.
The application for a new premises licence for Ground Floor West, 34 Bruton Place, was discussed at a Licensing Sub-Committee (6) meeting on Thursday 31 July 2025. The applicant, Ametora Leisure Group Limited, intends to operate a small, high-end cocktail bar at the location, with a capacity of approximately 40 patrons. The proposed operating hours are:
- Monday to Wednesday: 12:00 to 00:00
- Thursday: 12:00 to 00:00
- Friday: 12:00 to 00:30
- Saturday: 12:00 to 00:30
- Sunday: 12:00 to 22:30
According to the Public reports pack, access to the premises will be via a single door on Bruton Place, with guests being shown to their allocated seating. The bar plans to offer cocktails, beers, wines, and bar food, but will not operate as a restaurant. The applicant is also seeking permission for off-sales of alcohol for events and for customers using tables outside the premises, subject to a pavement licence.
However, the proposal has faced opposition. Environmental Health has raised concerns about potential public nuisance and public safety, as detailed in the report. Furthermore, an interested party has objected, citing concerns about over-commercialisation and the impact on residents' amenity.
The Licensing Sub-Committee will consider the application in light of the City of Westminster Statement of Licensing Policy, including Policy HRS1 and Policy PB1, as referenced in the Public reports pack.
