Studio 1.1 Gallery, a not-for-profit art space on Redchurch Street, is facing objections from Environmental Protection over its temporary event notice (TEN) application for monthly exhibition openings, due to concerns about noise and anti-social behaviour.

The Licensing Sub Committee convened on Thursday, 31 July 2025, to consider the TEN application submitted by Keran Roger James for Studio 1.1 Gallery, located at 57a Redchurch Street. The gallery sought permission to sell alcohol for consumption on and off the premises during exhibition openings, held as part of the Whitechapel Gallery's First Thursdays events. The proposed event on Thursday, 7 August 2025, was expected to host a maximum of 80 attendees.

The Licensing Sub Committee is expected to adjudicate on the application and objections.

Environmental Protection raised concerns about potential public nuisance, citing noise breakout from the venue and disturbances caused by patrons congregating on Redchurch Street. Nicola Cadzow, Environmental Health Officer, noted complaints of persistent anti-social behaviour linked to the gallery, including obstruction of pavements and the road, obstruction of mosque entrances, excessive noise disrupting evening prayers, and littering with alcohol containers. Environmental Protection provided resident complaints and attached images to their representation, including a quote from a resident: This premises regularly hosts gatherings where alcohol is consumed, during which the road and pavements on Redchurch Street are completely obstructed. These events have been taking place over an extended period (please see images attached).

Crowd of people on Redchurch Street, potentially related to noise and access concerns raised about the Studio 1.1 Gallery event.
Crowd of people on Redchurch Street, potentially related to noise and access concerns raised about the Studio 1.1 Gallery event.

Image submitted by Environmental Protection showing potential public nuisance outside 57A Redchurch Street.
Image submitted by Environmental Protection showing potential public nuisance outside 57A Redchurch Street.

Keran James responded to the objections, stating that the gallery has been part of Tower Hamlets' cultural life since 2003 and has always strived to respect its neighbours, including the mosque. As measures to mitigate noise and anti-social behaviour, James stated that they try to time any opening to avoid prayer times and that at the end of any event they make sure the pavement in front of the mosque is clear. They added that on other days they would do the same, even when the bottles or debris are nothing to do with them. James claimed that photos showing street blockage and public drinking were taken when the gallery was closed and padlocked. They also stated that a recent fund-raiser for Gaza attracted significant support and disputed claims that anyone was hindered from entering the mosque.

The Licensing Sub Committee, comprised of Councillor Peter Golds (Chair of Licensing Committee / Licensing Regulatory Committee), Councillor Sabina Akhtar (Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Social Care), and Councillor Rebaka Sultana, considered the application and objections. The committee was reminded by Simmi Yesmin, Democratic Services Officer, to declare any interests related to the agenda items, as per the Council's Code of Conduct for Members. The Public reports pack includes a note from the Monitoring Officer regarding Declarations of Interest at meetings, referencing the Code of Conduct for Members.