Westminster's Licensing Sub-Committee is considering an objection from the Metropolitan Police to a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) that would allow Convenience 65, located at 47 Aldwych, to sell alcohol 24 hours a day from 26 December 2025 to 1 January 2026.

The Licensing Sub-Committee convened on Thursday 27 November 2025, to address licensing concerns for Convenience 65, Walkers of Whitehall, and Smiths Bar and Grill. The sub-committee is required to have regard to the City of Westminster statement of Licensing Policy, effective from October 2021, and any guidance issued by the Secretary of State under Section 182 the Licensing Act 2003. The agenda for the meeting outlines the core hours when customers are permitted to be on the Premises for various types of establishments, including off-licenses. Agenda frontsheet

The police have raised concerns about potential increases in crime and disorder, threats to public safety, and the likelihood of public nuisance if the TEN is approved. According to police, allowing the venue to operate as a 24-hour off-licence during this period, especially on New Year's Eve, would place additional burden on police and stewards working to maintain safety during this high-risk period.

The Environmental Health Service has also objected to the TEN, citing insufficient information on how the licensing objectives would be upheld, particularly regarding the prevention of public nuisance and the protection of children from harm. They also raised concerns about how the timings of the TEN, especially on New Year's Eve/New Year's Day, will impact on the New Year's Eve event on the river with regard to Public Safety. Public reports pack

Mr. Krish Virani, the premises user, has provided further clarification on how the licensing objectives would be upheld, including measures to prevent public nuisance, protect children from harm, and ensure public safety. These measures include:

  • Clear signage requesting patrons to leave quietly and respect neighbors.
  • A dedicated staff member to monitor the external area to prevent congregation or noise nuisance.
  • The event will be adult-focused, with ID checks at the door and strict enforcement of Challenge 25.
  • All staff are trained to refuse service to intoxicated individuals or those unable to provide valid ID.
  • An integrated POS system requires ID for all age-restricted items.
  • A maximum capacity limit will be strictly managed.
  • Clear emergency exits and internal routes will be maintained, with staff briefed on evacuation procedures.
  • Patron entry and dispersal will be controlled to avoid conflict with external crowd movement, considering the New Year's Eve event on the river.

These measures are detailed in correspondence between the applicant and the Environmental Health Service, as found in the Public reports pack.

The Licensing Sub-Committee, comprised of Councillor Aziz Toki (Chair), Councillor Patrick Lilley, and Councillor Caroline Sargent, will consider the objections and Mr. Virani's clarifications before determining whether to issue a counter notice to the TEN.