Metropolitan Police Service
Councils are currently addressing Metropolitan Police concerns regarding licensing applications, operational changes, and public safety issues.
The Metropolitan Police Service is currently raising objections to various licensing applications, influencing council decisions. In August 2026, Kensington and Chelsea Council refused a temporary event notice for alcohol sales during Notting Hill Carnival after police concerns about overcrowding. Hackney Council is also scrutinising a bar's late-night licence bid following police concerns about public nuisance, while in July 2026, the police requested a review of a Lambeth off-licence due to crime and disorder.
Councils are also responding to changes in police operational support and safety advice. In September 2026, Kingston Council's Place Committee scrapped a proposed zebra crossing due to significant safety concerns raised by the Metropolitan Police regarding vehicle manoeuvres. Hillingdon Council agreed in the same month to a joint Coroner Officer staffing arrangement after the Metropolitan Police Service withdrew its support.
The Metropolitan Police Service, which polices Greater London, continues to act as a responsible authority in assessing licensing applications based on crime prevention and public safety. Licensing committees across various councils, including Ealing, Bromley, and Westminster, are scheduled to hold meetings in October 2026 where police representations on new or varied premises licences may be considered.
Key facts
- Ealing Council adopted a new hate crime strategy for 2026-2029 on October 7, 2026. Source
- Kingston Council's Place Committee scrapped a proposed zebra crossing in September 2026 due to safety concerns raised by the Metropolitan Police. Source
- Hillingdon Council agreed on September 17, 2026, to join a joint Coroner Officer staffing arrangement after the Metropolitan Police Service withdrew its support. Source
- Kensington and Chelsea Council refused a temporary event notice for alcohol sales on Ladbroke Grove in August 2026 after the Metropolitan Police objected. Source
- A Kensington and Chelsea licensing meeting was adjourned on August 24, 2026, due to uncertainty over a Metropolitan Police objection. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. 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 9 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.