The Metropolitan Police have called for the licence of a North London restaurant and shisha lounge to be revoked after discovering persistent unlawful alcohol sales during multiple inspections. Venue 295, located in Neasden, is now under scrutiny by Brent Council's licensing sub-committee, with a critical hearing scheduled for March 17.
Police Uncover Repeated Licensing Breaches
During separate visits on December 31, 2025, and January 17, 2026, officers found alcohol being sold at the premises despite there being no valid designated premises supervisor (DPS) present. This constitutes a clear breach of the venue's licensing conditions, which require a DPS to be on site at all times during alcohol sales.
The police review application states that staff were "unable or unwilling" to provide accurate management details during these visits. Alcohol was visibly available behind the bar, with two staff members actively operating, despite the absence of proper supervision.
Management Failures and Lack of Compliance
According to police documents, the premises received clear verbal advice and formal written warnings following the initial discoveries. However, management failed to engage with authorities and continued permitting unlawful alcohol sales. Police Sergeant Michael Sullivan emphasized that these actions demonstrate "a sustained lack of control, oversight, and compliance" by those responsible for the venue.
The licence holder listed on official documents informed police they are "no longer involved in the business" and are engaged in a civil dispute with current occupiers. This has created a situation where accountability appears fragmented, with no clear responsible party overseeing daily operations.
Licence History and Transfer Complications
The venue's licence has undergone several transfers in recent years:
- Transferred to an individual in September 2021
- Transferred to Destiny62 Limited in 2023
- Application to remove DPS status in October 2025
- Sub-lease arrangement with two individuals without formal agreement
This complex history has contributed to the current regulatory challenges, with the original licence holder now claiming no involvement in day-to-day operations.
Police Seek Strong Regulatory Action
The Metropolitan Police are specifically requesting licence revocation due to:
- Persistent and serious management failures
- Repeated breaches of the Licensing Act 2003
- Continued unauthorized operation of licensable activities
- Absence of effective management and accountability
- Disregard for statutory requirements
Police Sergeant Sullivan stated that these circumstances "justify robust regulatory action" to maintain public safety and licensing integrity.
Council Decision Pending
Brent Council's Alcohol and Entertainment Licensing Sub-committee will consider multiple options at the March 17 hearing:
- Modify, remove, or add conditions to the licence
- Exclude alcohol sales entirely
- Remove the designated premises supervisor
- Suspend the licence for up to three months
- Revoke the licence completely
The decision will determine whether Venue 295 can continue operating in its current form or face significant restrictions that could fundamentally alter its business model. The case highlights the importance of proper licensing compliance in London's hospitality sector, particularly for establishments combining multiple service offerings like dining, shisha, and alcohol sales.
