Warren House Faces Accusations of Failing to Report Planning Conditions
Kingston upon Thames Council's Licensing Sub-Committee heard on Tuesday 26 May 2026 that Warren House Hotel has been accused of failing to report on planning condition requirements for the past three years.
The allegation was made by Mr. Rupert Cox, co-chair of the Malden and Coombe Residents' Association, during a licensing hearing concerning an application for a new premises licence for the hotel. Mr. Cox stated that Warren House had failed to comply with planning condition reporting requirements for the past three years
under the current ownership.
The hotel was applying for authorisation for regulated entertainment, including film exhibition, indoor sporting events, live and recorded music, and dance performances, from 10am to midnight Monday to Saturday, and 12pm to midnight on Sundays. It also sought authorisation for late-night refreshment and the supply of alcohol for on-premises consumption.
Isaiah D'Alba and Kevin Davis, representing Warren House Hotels Limited, stated that the application was primarily to license newly added floor space, the Orangery, and that the core licensing hours and boundaries remained largely unchanged from their existing licence.
Licensing Officer Hannah Smith confirmed that the existing licence for Warren House is until midnight.
Regarding patron numbers for events, Kevin Davis referred to planning conditions, estimating a maximum of 300 people for events, though he acknowledged this was a planning matter. For the Orangery, a closing time of 10:30pm or 11pm could be implemented to manage noise.
Numerous residents and local associations raised objections to the application, citing concerns related to the prevention of crime and disorder, and the prevention of public nuisance. These concerns included potential noise disturbance from late-night events, increased traffic and parking issues, and the risk of anti-social behaviour.
Mr. John Tarrant spoke of past issues with late-night drinking and noise, urging the subcommittee to maintain strict conditions. He referred to past issues in 2003 with late-night drinking, where Inebriated patrons were screaming, shouting and swearing after midnight in the gardens immediately next to the water gardens.
As a result of a meeting, a list of conditions placed on Warren house, which safeguarded the adjacent residents
were implemented, which made all the difference.
However, residents voiced strong opposition. Mr. Roya Elizada described a burglary at his property which he believed was facilitated by inadequate security at Warren House. Mr. Cox expressed concern that the application might lead to Warren House becoming more like a public house, which he felt was unsuitable for the residential estate.
The subcommittee heard from several other persons making representations, all echoing concerns about noise, security, and the potential impact on the residential character of the area.
The subcommittee withdrew to make its decision, which would be confirmed by email and followed by full reasons within five working days. The full details of the meeting can be found in the Public reports pack.
