Ealing cafe and music venue refused to renew license after backlash

A cafe and music venue in Acton has been refused an extension to its current license after nearby residents strongly opposed the plans. The application, which would have extended licensable activity at the premises until 3am, met with objections from the police, the council’s noise team, the ward councilor as well as 15 neighbours.

Objectors’ main concerns related to parking, anti-social behavior and noise complaints. During the licensing subcommittee hearing, Mateusz Kruk from the Pollution Action Team confirmed there were eight noise complaints open against the bar at the time.

Anaya Cafe director Kanojan Yoganathan and his representative tried to draw a clear distinction between the old way of running the cafe and his tenure, which began in January. However, Mr Kruk confirmed that three of the eight noise complaints came after the change, with the most recent being made on February 16.

Mr Yoganathan’s plan outlined proposals to introduce more methods of noise control, including the introduction of a sound limiter that automatically reduces the volume of music and better soundproofing of the venue. However, concerns have been raised about the noise caused by customers leaving the premises, with PC Vickie Hewison warning of anti-social behavior including “drunk people” and “urinating”.

Izabella Grzyb, a resident of the nearby houses, which is only 45 meters from the cafe, said that “the problem is the way the service works”, adding that he had little regard for the residents. “It’s extremely tiring and disturbing,” she said, referring to how the activity at the site disturbs residents trying to sleep.

Nim Marades, who represented Hanger Hill Garden Residents’ Association, went a step further, saying the cafe “should be closed” altogether. The level of frustration expressed by residents clearly surprised the cafe representatives.

Mr Yoganathan’s representative said he was “disappointed” by the response from residents. He said Mr Yoganathan was willing to upgrade the premises and “put a lot of money behind it”, including soundproofing, “and everyone is up in arms”.

He added: “I’m really speechless, what more can we do?”

The committee members had their own concerns about the cafe’s management. Mr Yoganathan admitted he used to work for the venue’s former owners and, despite denouncing their previous time in charge as “mismanagement”, the committee appeared concerned about the connection and continued noise complaints made despite the change of manager.

For these reasons, the application was rejected by the licensing subcommittee.