A new bar, set to be named 'Craft Metropolis', has been granted a premises licence by Lewisham Council's Licensing Sub Committee D, despite significant objections from local residents. The decision, made on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, allows for extended hours for the sale of alcohol and a change in the premises' layout.
The application, submitted by Craft 26 Ltd, sought to change the name of the existing 'Good Food' premises at 26B Sydenham Road to 'Craft Metropolis'. The premises, previously known as 'Good Food', was licensed for on-sales of alcohol from 19:30 to 23:00 on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and off-sales with more restricted hours. The variation application proposed extending off-sales of alcohol to 11:00 PM seven days a week, and on-sales from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily. This represents a considerable expansion from the previous licence.
Ten representations were received regarding the application, with seven objections from local residents and one from a local councillor. Concerns raised by objectors primarily focused on the potential for public nuisance and increased crime and disorder. Residents cited worries about noise from patrons congregating outside, smoke pollution, and the risk of anti-social behaviour and tailgating into adjacent residential buildings.
However, three representations were in support of the application, highlighting the potential for the bar to revitalise the high street, providing a community space and a trendy addition to the area. Supporters also noted the positive community ethos of the applicant's other venues and the filling of a gap left by previous cafe closures. Councillor Jack Lavery was among those who supported the venture.
The Licensing Sub Committee resolved to grant the variation, but with additional conditions imposed to mitigate the concerns raised. These include a restricted smoking area to the rear of the premises, limited to two people after 9:00 PM, and a directive for patrons to use this designated area rather than smoking at the front. Measures will be in place to ensure patrons use the designated smoking area and do not congregate outside, including staff training on encouraging onward journeys to prevent loitering.
Oliver Meade, representing Craft 26 Ltd, had proposed several conditions, including staff training on the Licensing Act and 'challenge 25' policy, measures to prevent litter, and ensuring off-sales are in sealed containers. The existing licence conditions, which include CCTV requirements, an incident log, and restrictions on the sale of high-strength alcohol, will also remain in place. The Licensing Sub Committee granted the variation subject to additional conditions proposed by the Licensing Authority and the Home Office, in addition to the existing conditions and those proposed by the applicant.
Oliver Meade, the sole director of Craft 26 Limited, also runs Craft Metropolis venues in Penge and Brixton, with supporters noting the positive community ethos of these other venues. One objector, however, mentioned concerns about the operations of the Brixton venue.
The committee noted that a formal decision letter would be issued within five working days. The full details of the application and representations can be found in the Public reports pack.
