Warning That Longer Opening Hours From Gidea Park Take Away Will Likely lead To An Increase In Anti Social Behaviour.

Local democracy reporter Sebastian Mann today writes:

Police have warned that a Havering take away premises “will likely” lead to an increase in antisocial behaviour and noise if longer hours are applied.

The operators of GeTurkish, in Romford, have asked Havering Council for permission to close the takeaway at 1am seven days a week.

They initially applied to shut at 2am, three hours later than their current closing time, but were advised against it by the council and Metropolitan Police’s licensing departments.

In a formal objection submitted to the licensing committee, an officer from the Met said: “Alcohol-fuelled customers, some perhaps using foul language due to intoxication may loiter around the venue and resulting anti-social behaviour will cause a public nuisance for residents impacting their quality of life.”

The force says its proximity to the Gidea Park tube stop means it will see a lot of traffic from customers who have spent an evening drinking, which will “result in crime and disorder, risk to public safety and anti-social
behaviour (ASB)”.

The officer added: “Over recent years, police have experienced issues with crowds and disorder at takeaway venues operating in the early hours, which has involved persons intoxicated and becoming violent as a result.”

The council’s own licensing team says it is not opposed to the location of the takeaway but has similar concerns about the timing.

Its environmental health team has also objected to the proposals, saying it will increase footfall to the area and, with it, worsen noise.

They have requested that staff are trained on how to limit noise and delivery drivers not be allowed to loiter outside the venue.

The operators of the Station Road takeaway say they have already taken measures to reduce the risk of nuisance and uphold people’s safety.

They said: “For safety and security, the premises is equipped with CCTV coverage both inside and outside the shop, as well as adequate lighting to ensure a secure environment.

“The shop is located in a well-populated residential and commercial area, providing a safe and accessible setting for late-night operations. Additionally, there is a designated area for waste disposal to maintain cleanliness and prevent public nuisance.”

A formal decision will be made by the licensing committee, made up of elected councillors, next week.

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