I’ve delayed writing up the outcome of this hearing, which happened last Thursday, as I wanted to get the confirmation through in the post.   Despite the objections of myself, local residents and the Police, the licensing committee approved a late licence for Nazar in the Leegate Centre (occupying the old Cinnamon unit).

The licence granted allows:

• Sale of alcohol Sunday – Wednesday 12pm to 2am and Thursday-Saturday 12pm until 3am
• Entertainment – Thursday to Saturday 12pm until 3am
• and late night refreshment every night until 5am

I really welcome an empty unit in the Leegate Centre coming back into use, but I’m concerned about the late licence.   My worry (shared by the Police officer who attended the licensing hearing) is that as this is a much later licence than anywhere else locally has, we’ll end up with people who leave licenced premises elsewhere in Lee Green, Blackheath or Lewisham beating a path to the Leegate Centre for more drinks.   The applicants seem like really responsible people and promised to turn away drunks etc – but my worry is about what happens then?   Public transport to and from Lee Green at that time of night isn’t great.   The residents above the Leegate Centre were also very concerned about the late night entertainment, which they fear will distrub their sleep.

Anyway, the licence has been granted now, so we’ve got to make the best of it.    As I say, the operators seem like responsible people, so hopefully we can work through any problems.