crime and disorder
Councils are currently addressing crime and disorder concerns, mainly through licensing decisions and new enforcement strategies.
In October 2026, Kingston upon Thames' Licensing Sub-Committee granted Serve Bar and Café a late licence until midnight despite noise concerns, while Kensington and Chelsea's Licensing Sub-Committee heard objections to a Cheney Walk licence bid, which was subsequently scaled back. Earlier that month, Kingston upon Thames also considered a late-night licence for Popeyes, raising police and resident concerns.
Wandsworth Council's Enforcement Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee approved an Integrated Enforcement Team with 25 new Metropolitan Police officers in October 2026 to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour. Croydon Council adopted a new Community Safety Strategy for 2026-2029 in July 2026. Kensington and Chelsea's Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to meet on 29 October 2026 to discuss further licensing matters.
Crime and disorder, encompassing illegal activities and disruptive behaviour, is a key licensing objective that councils consider when reviewing applications for premises licences. Concerns often relate to potential increases in public nuisance and anti-social behaviour, as highlighted by residents and the Metropolitan Police.
Key facts
- Kingston upon Thames' Licensing Sub-Committee granted Serve Bar and Café a late licence until midnight on 20 October 2026. Source
- Wandsworth Council's Enforcement Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee approved 25 new Metropolitan Police officers in October 2026. Source
- Kensington and Chelsea's Licensing Sub-Committee heard objections to a Cheney Walk licence bid on 15 October 2026. Source
- Hounslow's Licensing Panel granted a Tesco Express alcohol licence with reduced hours on 16 September 2026. Source
- Croydon Council adopted a new Community Safety Strategy for 2026-2029 in July 2026. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 21 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.