A debate over licensing is brewing in Hackney, sparked by an application to vary the premises licence of Gocci, located at 468 Kingsland Road. The Hackney Council Licensing Sub Committee D met on 24 June 2025, to discuss the application, which has raised concerns about a potential shift from a kebab shop to a bar.
The application seeks to include hours for recorded music and the supply of alcohol (on-sales) from Monday to Sunday, and late night refreshment from Sunday to Wednesday. Applicant Barbaros Inan also requested the removal of several conditions from the existing licence, including those restricting alcohol sales to takeaway meals and prohibiting the sale of high-strength beverages.
The Licensing Authority submitted a representation, expressing concerns that the proposed changes, including the layout and extended hours, could indicate a change of use. They noted that the proposed hours exceeded the council's policy on core hours for licensed premises and that the applicant should demonstrate appropriate planning permission. The public reports pack stated that the Environmental Health Authority withdrew their representation based on agreed conditions.
The committee also reviewed an application to vary a premises licence for Piscos, a cocktail bar and restaurant at 16 Stoke Newington Road. The application sought to extend the use of the external area and allow smoking outside on Fridays and Saturdays. This application faced objections from local residents, citing concerns about crime, public safety, nuisance, and the protection of children. Concerns raised by residents included overcrowding, drunk people, unsafe dynamics, and music being heard along the street.
The meeting transcript shows Councillor Joe Walker chaired the meeting. Amanda Nauth from Legal Services supported the members. Subha Sriramana, Principal Licensing Officer, presented the report.
The Licensing Officer recommended additional conditions be applied to Gocci's licence if the Sub-Committee approved the application, including mandatory conditions for alcohol sales and conditions consistent with the applicant's operating schedule and agreements with Environmental Enforcement.