McDonald's has applied for a premises licence to serve late-night refreshments until 2am at its Welling restaurant, according to a public notice. The branch at 38 Bellegrove Road would extend its hot food and drink service beyond its current operating hours, but only for delivery, not eat-in customers.
Application details and proposed hours
The application, submitted by Galmés Limited (trading as McDonald's Restaurant) on September 7, 2026, seeks a premises licence for 'late-night refreshment'. This would cover hot food and drink for consumption on and off the premises between 11pm and 2am every day of the week.
However, the public notice clarifies that the eat-in service will close daily at midnight. After that point, late-night refreshments would only be available via delivery. Customers would not be permitted to remain seated inside the restaurant until 2am.
Licensing requirements under the Licensing Act 2003
Under the Licensing Act 2003, providing hot food or hot drinks between 11pm and 5am can be a licensable activity. This means establishments like late-night takeaways may require a premises licence to operate during those hours.
Currently, the Welling branch operates from 6am until 11pm seven days a week. The restaurant is located near Welling railway station and the town centre, making it a key spot for late-night food options in the area.
Public consultation and next steps
The application is now open for public representations. Anyone wishing to comment must do so in writing by October 5, 2026. Bexley Council has stated that any member of the public can comment on a licensing application while it is open for consultation, provided the representation is made in writing and received by the closing date.
If no valid representations are received, the licensing authority must grant the application, although it can be subject to conditions. If valid representations are received, a hearing must be held, at which the licence can be granted, amended with conditions, or rejected.
The outcome of this application could change the late-night food options available in Welling. The decision now rests with the licensing authority and the residents who choose to make representations.
