City of Westminster statement of Licensing Policy
Westminster Council's Licensing Sub-Committees are currently reviewing numerous applications for new and varied premises licences, often facing objections over extended hours and potential public nuisance.
Westminster Council's Licensing Sub-Committees are currently reviewing numerous applications for new and varied premises licences, with several facing objections from residents and authorities. Most recently, in February 2026, residents and the Metropolitan Police voiced fears over a Soho venue's application to vary its licence, citing concerns about increased noise and disturbance. This follows similar objections in October 2025 to a Pizza Hut Delivery seeking to extend late-night refreshment hours until 2 AM.
Throughout 2026, Licensing Sub-Committees have regularly considered applications for new premises licences and variations to existing ones. In September 2026, applications included a "shadow" premises licence for Karaoke Box and a variation for Cavita, alongside a request to extend the terminal hour for the New Evaristo Club. These discussions reflect the ongoing process of regulating licensed premises under the City of Westminster Statement of Licensing Policy.
The City of Westminster Statement of Licensing Policy outlines the council's approach to licensing applications, aiming to promote objectives such as preventing crime and disorder, ensuring public safety, and protecting children from harm. Earlier in 2025, applications for a 24-hour McDonald's and a new cocktail bar also drew objections from residents and police regarding potential disturbances and over-commercialisation.
Key facts
- Residents and the Metropolitan Police objected to a Soho venue's licence variation in February 2026. Source
- Soho Social applied for a time-limited licence variation from February 2026 to February 2027. Source
- Pizza Hut Delivery sought to extend late-night refreshment hours until 2 AM in October 2025. Source
- A St. John's Wood pub applied for a new licence in August 2025 after its previous licence was revoked in September 2023. Source
- A McDonald's restaurant sought to operate 24 hours a day in July 2025, drawing objections from police and residents. 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 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.