A new bar in Orpington High Street has been denied a premises licence after police raised concerns about its owner's previous Class A drug use. Bromley Council’s Licensing Sub-Committee rejected the application for Priory Lounge & Tapas Bar at 140 High Street, Orpington, because they felt applicant Ekrem Cena's criminal record meant he was "not a fit and proper person to operate such premises."
Police and Resident Objections
According to minutes from the sub-committee meeting on April 17, Met Police Sergeant Peter Wright raised concerns about Mr Cena's ability to act responsibly as a premises licence holder. Mr Cena had been previously arrested and found in possession of Class A drugs, which he admitted were for personal use. He also has one conviction for drug driving under the influence of cocaine from November 2024 and was disqualified from driving until last month.
Residents living behind the High Street, along with the Knoll Residents Association, objected to the application. They believed music and revellers from the new bar would disturb them late at night. Parking was also a concern. Bromley's own licensing team objected, citing late-night noise as likely to have an "unacceptable impact on local residents."
Noise and Planning Issues
The minutes stated: "Noise from music, customers' voices, and general activity was considered likely to cause significant and ongoing public nuisance during evening and late-night hours, including impacting the sleep of children living nearby." The sub-committee also noted that Mr Cena had undertaken development works at the lounge without planning permission, building control approval, or consultation with Bromley's licensing team. Bromley's planning department objected because of this.
Legal Representation and Outcome
Speaking on behalf of Mr Cena, legal representative Umit Avci said he had considered residents' representations and removed the live and recorded music element from the original application. He assured the sub-committee that Priory Lounge would not operate as a nightclub and that alcohol sales would be ancillary to food. Mr Avci also stated that Mr Cena was willing to step down as premises licence holder, with his wife assuming the role. However, police and Bromley's planning and licensing teams maintained their objections, as they felt he would continue to have influence over the premises.
The licensing sub-committee ultimately rejected the application due to Mr Cena's criminal record and his "disregard for planning and company law." It was found that he had resigned as a director of a company in September 2025 but had signed company accounts as a director three months later.
