The Chequers pub in Hornchurch has had its licence suspended for four weeks and its Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) removed following a violent disorder incident. The decision was made by Havering Council's Licensing Sub-Committee on Thursday, April 9, 2026.
The committee also imposed a series of new conditions on the pub's licence, which replace the interim steps taken after an expedited hearing on March 17, 2026. The interim steps had included the suspension of the licence.
The review was initiated by the Chief Officer of Police for Havering Borough after a violent disorder occurred at the premises in the early hours of March 11, 2026. Representations supporting the review were received from the police, the licensing authority, and Havering's Child Welfare Department.
Concerns about child safety were raised by Lisa Kennedy, the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) for Havering's Children's Services. She highlighted the potential risk to children should an incident like the one on March 11 occur while they were present. Ms Kennedy also expressed concerns regarding the alleged selling of alcohol after hours and how they would manage situations where they have to follow those processes when children are there.
The police presented evidence, including CCTV footage and till receipts, suggesting alcohol sales after licensed hours. The defence for the licence holder argued that existing conditions were outdated and proposed revised conditions. These included the use of toughened glass for draft beer and cider, specific requirements for door staff during high-profile football matches, and a restriction on under-18s after 7:00 PM. Danielle Cossard, who has worked at the premises for nine years, was proposed as the new DPS.
Following deliberation, the subcommittee decided to suspend the licence for four weeks, remove the DPS, and modify the licence with new conditions. These include measures related to the WAVE (Women's Aid Violence Education) and Ask for Angela schemes, staff training, and CCTV coverage. Full written reasons for the decision and details of the imposed conditions will be provided within five working days.
Further details on the case can be found in the Public reports pack.
