late-night refreshments
Councils are currently balancing applications for late-night refreshment licences with resident concerns about noise and anti-social behaviour.
Kingston Council's Licensing Sub-Committee deferred a decision in August 2026 on a late-night refreshment licence for a KFC in Chessington due to resident and councillor concerns. This follows the committee granting a licence in July 2026 to another KFC in New Malden, but with strict conditions, after objections from local residents and a ward councillor. Both applications sought permission for late-night refreshments, often with delivery-only services after midnight.
Other councils have also recently approved late-night refreshment licences despite objections. Newham Council's Licensing (2003 Act) Sub-Committee granted licences for a Plaistow dessert shop and a Manor Park pizza shop in April 2026, both allowing service until 4:00 AM, despite resident concerns. In March 2026, Wandsworth Licensing Sub-Committee granted a Balham McDonald's a 24-hour licence, extending service until 5:00 AM daily.
The provision of late-night refreshments, defined as food and drink services between 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM, is a key consideration in licensing applications. Waltham Forest Council's Licensing Act 2003 Sub-Committee is scheduled to discuss this topic at its meeting on 5 October 2026.
Key facts
- Kingston Council's Licensing Sub-Committee deferred a decision on a KFC Chessington late-night refreshment licence in August 2026. Source
- Kingston upon Thames Council granted a KFC New Malden late-night refreshment licence with strict conditions in July 2026. Source
- Newham Council granted a Plaistow dessert shop a late-night refreshment licence until 4:00 AM in April 2026. Source
- Newham Council granted a Manor Park pizza shop a late-night refreshment licence until 4:00 AM in April 2026. Source
- Wandsworth Licensing Sub-Committee granted a Balham McDonald's a 24-hour late-night refreshment licence in March 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 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.