A new premises licence application for Magical Mystery, located at 135-149 Shaftesbury Avenue, was discussed at a Camden Council Licensing Panel E meeting on Thursday, 3 July 2025. The applicant, Liam O Hare of City Halo, is seeking a licence for regulated entertainment, late night refreshment, and the supply of alcohol for the venue, formerly the West End 'Saville Theatre'.
The application proposes the following hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 09:00 to 01:00
- Thursday to Saturday: 09:00 to 03:00
- Sunday: 09:00 to 00:30
The applicant's summary of proposals stated that Magical Mystery Ltd planned to operate the premises on a time limited basis, to develop a new model for building communities inside cultural spaces. The report stated that the applicant's team had a proven track record in founding Secret Cinema, film festivals, national radio stations, exhibitions, fundraising events, and producing film and music concerts.
The applicant's summary of proposals also stated that the premises is the former West End 'Saville Theatre' designed by architect Sir Thomas Bennett, and that in 1965, Brian Epstein, manager of the Beatles, took over operation of the Saville Theatre presenting drama and rock & roll shows.
Representations
The council received 52 representations regarding the application, with 15 opposing and 34 supporting it. Those opposing included representations from a Responsible Authority for Licensing, a Resident Association, and fourteen residents. Supporters included residents and professionals.
Key concerns raised by objectors related to the prevention of public nuisance, particularly regarding noise and anti-social behaviour, and the late hours of operation. Some residents expressed concerns about potential disturbances to their sleep and the impact on their quality of life.
Applicant's Proposals
To address concerns, the applicant stated they had scaled back licensable activities and proposed hours following feedback from local stakeholders and Responsible Authorities. The application included 34 conditions to ensure the promotion of the four Licensing Objectives.
The applicant's summary of proposals stated that the applicant had engaged further with the Covent Garden Community Association and local residents, resulting in an offer to a reduction in hours, amendments to the Premises Management Plan and additional conditions to address local concerns.
The applicant instructed an acoustic consultant to undertake a noise impact assessment, which concluded that the operation of a community arts, music and cultural events venue at this location would not result in an increase to average noise levels in the area around the application site.
Licensing Authority Representation
The licensing authority representation noted that the application seeks to permit licensable activity outside the framework hours within the Seven Dials Cumulative Impact Policy Area. While this presumption is rebuttable, it is only in exceptional circumstances and where the applicant has successfully demonstrated there will be no negative cumulative impact on any of the licensing objectives.
The Licensing Panel E of Camden Council met to discuss the application for a new premises licence for Magical Mystery, located at 135-149 Shaftesbury Avenue.
