Kingston upon Thames Council's Licensing Sub-Committee has been reviewing a licensing application from Cerventa Events Limited for All Saints Church Lawns, paving the way for a seasonal event space this coming winter. The council aims to balance the aspirations of the hospitality/entertainment industry with the needs of residents, businesses, workers, shoppers and visitors, as stated in the Licensing Policy.
The application seeks a new premise licence to operate seasonally from 1 November to 31 January each year, with planned operating hours of 10:00 to 23:00 daily. This includes the hours for alcohol sales, while films are shown from 10:00 to 22:00, and live and recorded music is from 10:00 to 22:30, according to proposed hours of operation.
The licence would allow for the provision of films, live and recorded music, and the supply of alcohol.
The initial hearing on 20 May 2025 was adjourned to allow the applicant to provide additional information. The reconvened hearing took place on 3 July 2025.
Brendan Herbert, the solicitor for Cerventa Events Limited, provided a detailed summary of the event concept, including photographs from similar events and a CAD 3D model of the site. He said the additional information was to address the committee's desire to understand the nature of the structures and activities.
Councillor Olly Wehring noted that the additional information addressed the initial concerns about the application. Councillor Jackie Davies added that a licensable area shaded on the hand-drawn map would have been helpful, but that the extra information was really useful and gave a much better idea of where the bars are and how everything's stored.
The proposed alcohol management plan includes measures such as the Challenge 25 policy, SIA registered security, CCTV coverage of bar areas, and the use of paper or rPET cups. To further address potential noise and antisocial behaviour, the applicant has also submitted a waste disposal plan and noise limiters as part of their conditions.
Mr Herbert addressed a representation from a member of the public, stating it was rather ill-conceived
because it raised concerns about noise during the summer months, while the event is scheduled for November to January. He also noted that the police and environmental health had not raised objections, and the applicant had submitted detailed conditions and an alcohol management plan.
The representations from other persons included concerns about noise nuisance and antisocial behaviour, particularly late at night. The resident noted that noise from outdoor events, including music and raised voices, can disrupt the quiet enjoyment of homes, especially during warmer months when windows are open. They also expressed concern that permitting outdoor entertainment could attract increased foot traffic, alcohol consumption, and congregation of people, potentially leading to antisocial behaviour.
The Licensing Policy states that the council aims to balance the aspirations of the hospitality/entertainment industry with the needs of residents, businesses, workers, shoppers and visitors. It also notes that the potential for nuisances associated with the style, characteristics and activities of the business to be carried out at the premises and the potential steps that could be taken to reduce the risk of nuisances occurring are key criteria.
