Westminster City Council's Licensing Sub-Committee is currently reviewing several key licensing decisions, focusing on new premises and existing establishments.

On Wednesday, December 3rd, 2025, the Licensing Sub-Committee (3), comprised of Councillor Robert Eagleton, Councillor Deputy Chancellor Chowdhury, and Councillor Barbara Arzymanow, convened to discuss an application for a new premises licence at 11-Strand London WC2N 5HR. The application, submitted by J.D. Weatherspoon, proposes a capacity of 320 people.

Philip Colvin Casey, representing J.D. Weatherspoon, highlighted the company's extensive experience and commitment to responsible operation. I hope it satisfies you that you are dealing with a conscientious, competent and compliant operator, Casey stated, emphasising the company's proactive engagement with the council, police, and local stakeholders. He outlined several measures to promote licensing objectives, including core terminal hours, a manned door, seating arrangements, a full food offer, and the absence of music or exterior drinking. He also noted that there were 45 proposed conditions.

Representations were received from interested parties, including Richard Brown of Westminster Licensing Project, representing David North and Martin Dewitt, both residents of Craven Street. Concerns were raised regarding security provision and the location of the smoking area. North expressed concerns about the applicant's understanding of the challenges in the Charing Cross area, stating, From the first meeting, it was apparent to me, the applicant didn't have a clear understanding of the challenges we got in Charing Cross and Spence. He advocated for SIA-trained door staff during all opening hours, citing persistent issues with drug-taking, rough sleeping, and begging in the area.

The committee members questioned the applicant and the interested parties on various aspects of the application, including security measures, capacity, staffing levels, and potential impact on the surrounding area. Councillor Charles clarified the door security arrangements, confirming that there would be non-SIA staff until 6pm, followed by SIA staff until closing. In addition to SIA-trained door staff, other security measures discussed included a meter and greeter on the door at all times (even from breakfast until 6 PM), risk assessment work to determine if further security is needed, SIA staff on Craven Street from last orders, body-worn cameras for door staff, and a direct phone number for residents to contact the manager. There will also be neighbour respect notices prominently displayed and regular meetings with Craven Street residents.

The applicant also addressed concerns about potential disturbances during football matches and other events, outlining their event management plan and close coordination with the police. J.D. Weatherspoon's event day management plan (page 168 of the meeting papers) includes a risk assessment to determine the necessary number of SIA staff, additional front-of-house staff for quick service, and additional senior management to ensure effective implementation of processes. The plan also involves liaising with the police and using mostly plastic drinkware. The plan is to review upcoming events and their security risk assessment with information guides from network rail, British transport police, the metropolitan police and other stakeholders.

After hearing all representations, the committee adjourned to make a decision in private. The decision will be communicated to all parties within five working days.