A Kingston upon Thames licensing committee has heard objections to plans for The Biryani Centre's alcohol and music license application, with residents raising concerns over public nuisance, crime, and disorder.
At The Biryani Centre
, located at 94 Burlington Road, New Malden, the application sought permission to sell alcohol for on and off-premises consumption and to provide recorded music daily from midday to 10 pm. The sale of alcohol for both on and off-premises consumption is authorised between 12 midday and 10 pm daily, with no specified difference in hours between the two.
Initial police concerns regarding crime and disorder were addressed through amendments to the applicant's operating schedule, leading to the withdrawal of their representation. While the specific details of these amendments are not explicitly stated, they were reflected in the conditions shown in Annex 3 of the report.
Despite the police representation being withdrawn, two representations from local residents cited worries about increased alcohol-related issues, litter, and noise pollution. One resident stated: The surrounding area already has several convenience stores and supermarkets where alcohol can be purchased, meaning alcohol is already readily available locally. I therefore do not believe granting another licence for the sale of alcohol is necessary and I am concerned it will increase alcohol-related issues in the immediate area.
Another resident expressed concern about increased noise, particularly during the evenings. Customers consuming alcohol are more likely to congregate outside the premises, resulting in raised voices, disturbance and general noise pollution.
In response, the applicant, Thirunavukarasu Rajendran, assured the committee that the business is family-run and intends only to offer customers the option of purchasing a glass of wine or beer with their meal, not to operate as a bar. He further stated, We would not encourage or permit customers to gather outside the premises drinking alcohol or causing a disturbance.
Additionally, he mentioned that Alcohol for off-sales will be supplied in sealed containers for consumption away from the premises.
Beyond offering to put up signs to remind customers to be mindful of neighbours when leaving late at night, these measures aim to mitigate potential noise pollution.
The applicant highlighted the responsible operation of a similar premises in Southfields with no prior complaints.
The committee was asked to determine this application, with options including granting it as requested, granting it with conditions, excluding certain licensable activities, or rejecting it. The licensing committee is required to take into account the Secretary of State's Guidance issued under section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003, the Council's Statement of Licensing Policy... and the licensing objectives.
They must also disregard any representations that do not relate to the promotion of the licensing objectives.
The decision is made having regard to the representations received and any evidence heard at the hearing.
Decisions were to be confirmed by email within five working days. The full details of the meeting can be found in the Public reports pack Tuesday 08-Sep-2026 09.45 Licensing Sub-Committee.
