New Chiswick Restaurant Secures Alcohol Licence Amid Councillor's Objection

A new dining establishment on Chiswick High Road has been granted an alcohol licence, despite facing objections from a local councillor known for her frequent opposition to new businesses in the area.

Shahid Hirji, the entrepreneur behind the venture, plans to open a restaurant with a basement bar offering live entertainment at 299-303 Chiswick High Road. The decision to grant the licence was made by a licensing panel, which dismissed concerns raised by Councillor Joanna Biddolph.

Councillor Biddolph, who has a history of objecting to various local initiatives, expressed her reservations about the new establishment. She suggested that the applicant might be anticipating issues related to anti-social behaviour and even crime involving weapons.

Her objections were reminiscent of a previous case 14 years ago, where a similar application was denied. However, Hirji's representative, Stewart Gibson, countered these claims during the licensing panel hearing, arguing that the councillor's assertions were unfounded and amounted to an attempt to tarnish Hirji's reputation.

Gibson clarified that the establishment would not resemble a nightclub, as suggested by Biddolph. He pointed out that the application clearly stated the intention to operate as a 'restaurant/bar', with closing hours set at 1 a.m. Furthermore, Gibson assured the panel that an incident book would be maintained to record any illegal or anti-social behaviour, not because such incidents were expected, but as a standard police requirement.

Hirji himself addressed the panel, confirming that he had applied for the necessary planning permissions and complied with all building regulations. Notably, there were no objections from the police or licensing enforcement officers regarding the licence application. The previous occupant of the site, an Indian fusion restaurant named Republic, had similar licensing terms, including the sale of alcohol and comparable opening hours.

The licensing panel, chaired by Councillor Gabriella Giles and including Councillors Richard Foote and Unsa Chaudri, granted the licence for alcohol consumption both on and off the premises. The approved hours for alcohol sales are from 9 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. from Sunday to Thursday, and until 1 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Additionally, the licence permits live and recorded music indoors, with hours extending until midnight on weekdays and 1 a.m. on weekends. Late-night refreshments are also allowed during these times.

While Hirji has secured the alcohol licence, he is still awaiting the outcome of his planning application. The site previously housed two separate businesses: the Indian restaurant Republic and a takeaway pizza outlet. Hirji has combined the spaces into a single establishment, which necessitates a change of use application, despite both former businesses being licensed food venues.

Hirji has expressed his vision for the new restaurant, which he hopes to open in the autumn. He aims to create more than just a dining experience, envisioning the venue as a community hub. Plans include hosting events for charities focused on mental health, supporting local youth sports, and providing a venue for Freemasonry gatherings.

Hirji's business partner, Sunny, is actively involved in charitable work, serving as a trustee for two organisations: 'Odd One Out', a men's mental health charity, and 'Diverse Rugby'. Both Hirji and Sunny are members of a Freemasons lodge in Maidenhead and intend to organise social evenings for fellow members.

Hirji emphasised his commitment to building a positive relationship with Chiswick residents, enhancing community spirit, and contributing to the local area's well-being. He expressed excitement about the potential to support local causes and foster a sense of community through the new establishment.

The decision to grant the alcohol licence, despite Councillor Biddolph's objections, highlights the challenges faced by new businesses in the area.

Biddolph's pattern of opposing various initiatives, including those by local community companies and homeowners, has been noted by many. Her objections often lack substantial grounds, as was the case with Hirji's application.

The granting of the licence marks a significant step forward for Hirji's venture, allowing him to proceed with his plans to open the restaurant and bar. The establishment is expected to bring a fresh dining and entertainment option to Chiswick High Road, contributing to the area's vibrant atmosphere.