A Wimbledon McDonald's is seeking a 24/7 licence, but the move is facing objections from local residents who fear increased crime, disorder, and public nuisance.
The Merton Council Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to convene on 26 June 2025 to consider the application for the McDonald's restaurant at 1-3 The Broadway, Wimbledon. ILS Operations Limited, the premises licence holder, seeks to amend its opening hours to 05:00 to 05:00 every day and authorise late-night refreshment from 23:00 to 05:00 every day for in-store access, takeaways, and deliveries. Currently, the restaurant is closed to the public between 01:00 and 05:00 (02:00 and 05:00 on Fridays and Saturdays).
Dick Bower, Chair of Friends of Wimbledon Town, submitted a representation objecting to the application on 7 May 2025. The group believes that the McDonald's would become a magnet for late-night drinkers, potentially leading to fights, rowdiness, noise, and litter. They also suggest that it could attract drug dealers and pose a risk to residents and passers-by. Concerns were also raised about teenagers spending the night in a fast-food outlet instead of getting rest and sleep.
The Licensing Sub-Committee meeting will include presentations from the applicant, responsible authorities, and interested parties. The sub-committee, comprised of Councillors Brenda Fraser, Joan Henry, and Michael Paterson, will then retire for a private session to make their decision, with legal advice from a legal officer.