Fulham Premises Face Council Investigation Over Late Night Trading Allegations
Several prominent establishments along North End Road in Fulham are currently under formal investigation by Hammersmith and Fulham Council following serious allegations that they have been operating beyond their legally permitted licensing hours. The investigation, which first came to public attention during an unrelated court hearing in early February, involves multiple premises in this busy West London thoroughfare.
Popular Chicken Shops Named in Licensing Probe
The Local Democracy Reporting Service has confirmed that well-known chicken shop chains Morley's and Popeyes are among the businesses being scrutinized by council officials. North End Road serves as a vital commercial artery running from West Kensington in the north down to Fulham Broadway at its southern terminus, hosting numerous pubs, cafés, takeaways, and residential properties in close proximity.
A spokesperson for Hammersmith and Fulham Council stated unequivocally that conducting licensable activities without proper authorization constitutes a criminal offense under current legislation. If convicted of such violations, business operators could face severe penalties including unlimited financial fines and potential imprisonment for up to six months.
Recent Context: McDonald's Licensing Appeal Dismissed
This investigation emerges against the backdrop of recent heightened attention to North End Road's late-night economy. Just this month, McDonald's saw its appeal against a council decision denied at the City of London Magistrates' Court. The fast-food giant had sought to overturn a ruling from May's marathon 5.5-hour Licensing Sub-Committee meeting that refused its application for extended operating hours.
The court's February 13 judgment determined the council's original decision was both "proportionate and necessary," thereby dismissing McDonald's appeal entirely. During these legal proceedings, council representatives revealed they were already investigating several local premises for potential licensing hour violations.
Community Reaction and Official Statements
Sarah Chambers, a local resident who chairs the Walham Green Ward Panel, expressed shock upon learning about the allegations. "These hours aren't guidance, they are legal obligations," Chambers emphasized to reporters. "We fully support the council's investigation into this serious matter and encourage all residents to promptly notify the council's licensing team about any breaches they witness."
When formally approached for confirmation, a Hammersmith and Fulham Council spokesperson acknowledged that "a number of allegations" had been received regarding premises in Fulham's North End Road allegedly offering licensable activities later in the evening without proper authorization. "We are currently investigating these allegations thoroughly," the spokesperson confirmed, reiterating the potential criminal consequences for violations.
Both Morley's and Popeyes have been contacted for comment regarding their inclusion in this ongoing investigation. The council's licensing team continues to examine evidence and allegations as part of their regulatory enforcement responsibilities across the borough.
