Popeyes, the popular fried chicken chain, will be serving customers at a branch in South West London, despite concerns from neighbors about potential noise disturbances caused by late-night customers and delivery drivers. The Richmond Council approved the branch’s application for a late-night license, allowing it to stay open for deliveries until 1am on The Quadrant, located next to Richmond station, after a licensing hearing on May 8, 2023. The branch, part of the US chain’s expansion across the UK, initially applied to close at 11pm daily but was granted permission to shut at 11.30pm on Sundays to Thursdays and 12am on Thursdays to Saturdays.
The decision faced objections from four residents in the area, who raised concerns about noisy customers and delivery drivers hanging around the restaurant late at night, especially since the venue is in a Cumulative Impact Zone (CIZ) with strict limitations on the granting of licenses to avoid disturbances. Ginny Curry, representing The Richmond Society, expressed worries about the potential increase in disturbances in the area due to late-night opening hours. She highlighted the pressure on the CIZ and the already reduced police presence in the town center. Peter Willan, representing Friends of Richmond Green, also voiced concerns about public nuisance problems and the lack of sufficient police support in the area.
Despite the objections, barrister Mark Browning, representing the applicant, assured the committee that the restaurant would not have a negative impact on the CIZ if granted a late-night license. He emphasized that the venue would not serve alcohol, had security guards on weekends, and would use measures to prevent delivery drivers from loitering around the premises. Tim Barnett, London Operators Director for Popeyes, reiterated that the restaurant was a “premium brand” offering full table service and fresh chicken, making it less likely to attract drunk customers late at night. The committee ultimately granted the license with earlier closing times to minimize noise disturbances and ensure the safe dispersal of patrons from the town center into the early hours.
In conclusion, despite initial concerns from residents, Popeyes’ branch in South West London has been granted a late-night license with adjusted closing times to address noise disturbances and potential antisocial behavior. The decision reflects the committee’s confidence in the established company’s high standards and the measures in place to mitigate any negative impact on the surrounding area. With a focus on maintaining a positive relationship with the community, the restaurant will now operate with limited hours for public access while continuing to serve deliveries until late at night.
