A newly proposed hot pot restaurant in Barbican is seeking permission to operate until 11pm every night of the week, sparking concerns from residents living in the same building about potential noise and anti-social behaviour.
Restaurant Plans and Resident Objections
Sense, a Chinese hot pot restaurant located on Aldersgate Street, would operate from 11am to 11pm Monday through Sunday, serving food and drink on-site. It would also offer takeaway orders and drinks as a supplementary service. However, residents of London House, where the restaurant is situated, have voiced objections.
Gunjan Arora, a resident of London House, wrote in an objection letter: “Barbican is a predominantly quiet residential area outside office hours, which is a key reason why many of us live here. A late-night restaurant serving alcohol is likely to create ongoing disturbance.”
Licensing Hearing Details
Wei Wang, director of Sense, addressed the Licensing Committee at a hearing on May 14, stating: “As operator of the business, I am committed to running the premises responsibly and maintaining a relationship with the local residents.”
Objector Mr. Web raised concerns about noise from the terrace affecting neighbouring flats and expressed worries about the sale of alcohol for off-premises consumption. In response, Ms. Wang assured the committee that the terrace has only two tables, primarily used at lunchtime during good weather, and that off-premises alcohol sales would only accompany takeaway orders.
Potential Clauses and Decision
The committee discussed adding clauses to the license, including a ban on consuming alcohol on the terrace and a prohibition on selling unsealed alcohol for off-premises consumption. A decision is expected within five working days of the hearing.
