URL: https://democracy.runnymede.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1137

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: The Sub-Committee was asked to determine an application for a new Premises Licence in respect of 10 Woodham Lane, New Haw, Addlestone, Surrey. KT15 3NA.   The application was as set out in the agenda papers, including a change to the proposed hours of operation for the sale of alcohol from 09:00 to 22:00, instead of 08:00 to 23:00 hours as originally applied for.   Members noted that the premises had formerly been a hairdressers’ salon, and this application was for an off licence within a convenience store.  The only licensable activity applied for was for the sale by retail of alcohol (off the premises only).  It was proposed to call the business ‘Vape and Wine.’   Officers confirmed that 21 valid representations had been received in respect of the application.  These were summarised in the report and attached in full for the Sub-Committee to consider.  Members’ attention was drawn to the potential impact on nearby residential properties, including one that physically adjoined the premises.  Other representations referenced potential noise issues, litter, risk to public safety, anti-social behaviour, and the potential of harm to children and the community.   It was noted that none of the Responsible Authorities had made representations.   The applicant’s representative was invited to state their case.   Members were advised that the applicant had previous experience of retail, as part of a family run business, aware of the requirements with regard to compliance and community safety.  The applicant had been a delivery driver for Ocado for approximately 18 months and was familiar with the local area.  He had recently become a Personal Licence Holder and had attained level 2 BIIAB accreditation.  A 999 year lease had been secured for the premises, thus longevity and sustainability of the business was a priority.  Notices had been prepared to advise customers to leave the premises quietly and to avoid disturbance to residents.  The applicant was keen to promote public safety and planned to install CCTV, as set out in the application.  He assured the Sub-Committee that they would not start trading without it being in place, including coverage of the front door of the premises.  With regard to promoting the licensing objectives; the premises would have a refusals book and incident book; staff would be trained, and their training would be logged.  The applicant endeavoured to work with the community and stated that the business would be operated by himself, his partner and his brother.  It was stressed that younger family members would not be involved in the sale of alcohol and that a strict challenge 25 policy would be in place.   The Sub-Committee was asked to note that there were no cumulative impact zones in Runnymede and that each application should be treated on its merits.  It was stressed that none of the Responsible Authorities had made representations.    The applicant confirmed that it was estimated to have the shop fitted out and ready to open in approximately 2 – 3 weeks if the licence was granted.   One of the 21 residents that had made representations attended the meeting to speak, expressing their disappointment that other residents had not attended the meeting.  The resident spoke of the potential impact on them, and their quality of life if the application was granted.  They had significant concerns about noise, anti-social behaviour, vandalism, litter, and the constant pedestrian traffic in and around the premises on a daily basis, which they felt would have a detrimental effect on their privacy, health and wellbeing.  The Sub-Committee expressed their sympathy with the resident, also highlighting potential concerns about public safety, and the potential for anti-social behaviour, which would need to be well managed by the applicant, if the application were granted.   The applicant sought to re-assure the resident that there would be no music in the shop and would ensure their customers behaved properly and quietly.  There would be no vaping or consumption of alcohol on the premises, and customers would be encouraged to move away from the area having made their purchases.  The applicant offered to let the resident have their mobile phone number; this offer was declined.  The applicant also undertook to ensure the area was kept clean and tidy.   All parties were given an equal opportunity to speak and ask questions, and the meeting was adjourned at 15:18 pm with the press and public excluded while the Sub-Committee determined the application.   The meeting reconvened at 16:10.   The Sub-Committee unaminously agreed that the premises licence should be granted.  However, they added three additional conditions to the licence which it was hoped would alleviate the situation for local residents.  Members were also keen to stress that any failure to abide by the licensing objectives could result in the premises licence being subject to a review at any time.   Resolved that –   the application for a premises licence in respect of 10 Woodham Lane, New Haw, Addlestone, Surrey. KT15 3NA, be granted, subject to the Mandatory Conditions, Conditions consistent with the operating schedule, and with the following additional conditions:   i)          all staff must be trained in responsible alcohol retailing.  Details of such training shall be kept on the premises and available for inspection by any Authorised Officer on request;   ii)         no deliveries to the premises shall take place between 21:00 hours and 09:00 hours on the following day; and   iii)        staff will undertake routine litter picks to a distance of 5 metres around the main entrance to the premises, including the private forecourt and public highway

Date of Decision: October 10, 2025