A street trading licence for Chaii Corner, a proposed food truck in East Ham, is facing an objection from the council's Highways Authority over concerns about potential traffic obstruction.
The Licensing (2003 Act) Sub-Committee convened on Thursday 7th August 2025, at Newham Town Hall to discuss the application for a temporary street trading licence submitted by Mr. Hasson Hasson for Chaii Corner, located at 40 High Street South, East Ham. The Agenda for the meeting included declarations of interest, confirmation of procedure, and the Chaii Corner application as the main item for consideration. The sub-committee, comprised of Councillor Tonii Wilson, Chair of Licensing Committee, Councillor Jane Barbara Lofthouse, and Councillor Pushpa Dipaklal Makwana, considered the application amidst concerns raised by the Traffic, Network & Streetworks Team.
Mr. Hasson is seeking permission to operate a 14-metre by 6-metre food truck in the rear forecourt of the premises, selling a variety of refreshments including chai tea, coffee, milkshakes, and fresh pastries. The proposed trading hours are Sunday to Thursday, 11:00 to 02:00, and Friday and Saturday, 11:00 to 03:00. This is a new application for a temporary street trading licence for Chaii Corner.
While several consultations were carried out, including with ward councillors and the Metropolitan Police, the primary objection comes from the Highways Authority. Jim Jordan, Head of Network Management, stated that the location of the food truck, while on private land, might encourage drivers to stop on the double yellow lines, causing obstruction to the highway. He also noted the location's proximity to Newham College and Doran Court, raising concerns about potential obstruction to emergency services.
In a letter to Mr. Hasson, Mr. Jordan stated:
Whilst I appreciate that you will be off of the highway it does not detract from the possibility that patrons to your offering may park on the double yellow lines and cause an unnecessary obstruction to the highway.
Mr. Hasson responded by requesting a three-month trial period to demonstrate that his business could operate without causing disruption. However, Mr. Jordan's stance remained unchanged. My thoughts haven't changed,
he wrote, reiterating the objection from Network Management. No alternative solutions were agreed upon.
The Licensing Committee is tasked with determining whether to grant the temporary street trading licence, considering the Highways Authority's concerns and Mr. Hasson's proposal. The Public Reports Pack noted that there is no right of appeal for temporary street trading applications. The committee will need to weigh the potential benefits of the business against the potential risks to traffic flow and public safety.
