A new application for a premises licence for Pepes Piri Piri Sutton, located at 503 London Road, North Cheam, has raised concerns about potential noise disturbances for local residents. The Sutton Licensing Sub-Committee convened on Friday, 4 July 2025, to consider the application, which seeks permission for late-night refreshment and recorded music until 3:00 am daily.
The application, submitted by Shin Venture Ltd, requests the provision of late-night refreshment from 23:00 to 03:00 every day, and recorded music from 12:00 to 03:00 every day. The application form describes the business as a Piri Piri chicken restaurant - no alcohol at all.
The council received representations from both Responsible Authorities and Other Parties. The Metropolitan Police initially raised concerns, but withdrew their objection after the applicant amended their operating schedule following mediation. These amendments are reflected in the conditions arising from the applicant's operating schedule.
However, the Council's Environmental Health (Noise Pollution) Officer sustained their representation, citing concerns about noise from vehicles, doors, and people congregating outside the premises. Sarah Rye, Kingston and Sutton Shared Environment Service Regulatory Services Director, stated in the redacted representation from Responsible Authorities that the application did not adequately address the prevention of public nuisance, particularly regarding noise. The Environmental Health Officer suggested that any extended hours outside of deregulated hours be refused.
Several residents voiced their opinions, with one councillor objecting to the late closing time, citing potential disturbances to residents, including children. The redacted representations from Other Parties included both support and objections to the application.
Conversely, some residents expressed support for the restaurant, highlighting its provision of halal-certified meals and its potential to promote equal access to food for the Muslim community. One resident noted that Pepes has created a real community feel, taking time to get to know their customers and to ensure that everything is absolutely perfect along with immersing themselves with other neighbouring businesses.
The applicant's operating schedule includes several proposed conditions to mitigate potential issues, such as operating a CCTV system, maintaining an incident logbook, restricting deliveries between 22:00 and 08:00, and displaying notices requesting customers and delivery drivers not to loiter outside the premises. The conditions arising from the applicant's operating schedule also stipulate that the premises must operate only as a restaurant, with the restaurant area always laid out with tables for food service. This aims to ensure that the premises operates solely as a restaurant and not as a late-night takeaway.
The Licensing Sub-Committee is tasked with considering the application, taking into account the Statutory Guidance, the Council's Statement of Licensing Policy, the representations received, and any evidence presented at the hearing. The Licensing Hearing Procedures outline how the committee manages licensing applications, ensuring fairness and transparency.