A popular West London kebab shop has ignited a local debate by applying to stay open until 5am, a move that has drawn significant opposition from residents concerned about increased anti-social behaviour.
The Application Details
Star Kebab House on Earl’s Court Road has formally requested permission from Kensington and Chelsea Council to extend its operating hours. The application proposes staying open until 4am from Sunday to Thursday and until 5am on Fridays and Saturdays. This is a substantial extension from its current hours of 11.30am to 2am, seven days a week.
The applicant, Earl’s Court Food Limited, has put forward several measures to mitigate potential issues. They have promised to provide a dedicated phone number for a duty manager to handle any complaints and have explicitly stated that no food deliveries will take place. All food would be for collection by customers or consumption on the premises. The business also confirmed it does not sell alcohol.
Strong Local Opposition
The proposal has been met with considerable resistance from the local community. The council has received 112 letters of opposition, with residents arguing that later opening hours would exacerbate existing problems with street drinking, drug dealing, and general nuisance.
Opponents claim the application would undermine a Public Spaces Protection Order designed to limit noise and street disturbances in the area. They also argue that Earl’s Court is already "saturated" with late-night venues and that this application contributes to an unwelcome "creeping" 24-hour economy.
Local ward councillor Linda Wade voiced her concerns, writing that granting a 5am licence without effective enforcement would encourage other businesses to apply, potentially turning the street into a "no-go area for residents."
Another resident wrote, "Extending hours to 5am will only increase rubbish, blocked pavements, and people loitering or urinating on doorsteps." The Earl’s Court Society also raised doubts about the 'no deliveries' promise, pointing out that the shop’s website currently advertises delivery services on Just Eat, Deliveroo, and UberEats.
Arguments in Support
Despite the strong opposition, the council also received five letters of support for the application. Supporters describe Star Kebab House as a long-standing, family-run business that has served the community for decades without previous complaints.
Some residents argued that having a well-run premises open later would add to the safety and vibrancy of the street when other establishments are closed. One supporter wrote, "I believe that extending their operating hours will not only support the needs of residents like myself but also help sustain small local businesses in a responsible and community-oriented way."
Kensington and Chelsea Council’s licensing committee is set to review the application on Thursday, November 27. The decision comes as the council separately considers a 24-hour licence for a local McDonald's and recently rejected a similar request from Admiral Casino.
