Late-night refreshment licence
Councils are currently considering applications for late-night refreshment licences, often facing objections regarding potential crime and public nuisance.
In July 2026, Westminster City Council's Licensing Authority, the Metropolitan Police, and the Environmental Health Service objected to an application by Capital Arches Group Limited for a 5am late-night refreshment licence for a McDonald's in Leicester Square, citing concerns about crime, disorder, and public nuisance. Earlier in July 2026, a Hammersmith and Fulham council sub-committee granted Selekt Chicken a limited late-night refreshment licence until 11:30 PM on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, following objections from residents and authorities.
This follows Hammersmith and Fulham Council's Licensing Sub-Committee rejecting an application from Amigos Burgers and Shakes for a late-night refreshment licence in June 2026, after 51 objections were submitted. These discussions highlight ongoing concerns from authorities and residents regarding the potential for increased crime, disorder, and public nuisance associated with late-night refreshment licences, which permit businesses to serve hot food or drink between 11pm and 5am.
Key facts
- Westminster City Council's Licensing Authority, Metropolitan Police, and Environmental Health Service objected in July 2026 to a McDonald's 5am licence application. Source
- A Hammersmith and Fulham council sub-committee granted Selekt Chicken a limited late-night refreshment licence until 11:30 PM on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays on 23 July 2026. Source
- Hammersmith and Fulham Council's Licensing Sub-Committee rejected Amigos Burgers and Shakes' application for a late-night refreshment licence on 24 June 2026. Source
- Objections to late-night refreshment licences frequently cite concerns about crime, disorder, and public nuisance. Source 1 Source 2 Source 3
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 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.