In recent years Church Green, Wanstead, has become a very popular place to play, exercise and enjoy. It has in some ways become the green heart of central Wanstead use by locals and visitors to the area having an enjoyable day out.

It also had activities and concerts enjoyed by many but also, with the subsequent noise and disruption, supported yet tolerated by residents in the adjacent streets.

However Redbridge Culture and Leisure, a company contracted to deliver activities in Redbridge, have applied to vary the current terms of the licence which regulates the activities on Church Green

From a maximum of ten activities per year it is proposed there will be no set figure in the future.

It is proposed there will be a ‘seasonal’ cafe located near the playground that will be open for normal hours but later when events are taking place. On those occasions the cafe will stay open until between 10pm and 11pm and sell alcohol.

This could potentially alter the green significantly and with any extension to activities, including the sale of alcohol, have a significant impact on the quality of life of residents particularly those living in Spratt Hall Road, Woodbine Place and Wanstead Place.

Do we need another outlet selling alcohol in Wanstead? What toilet provision will there be for those drinking? Surely not the Woodbine Place public toilets? Have the police been consulted with regard to security issues?

Why is no maximum set for the number of activities taking place in a year? Have the activities that have been added been considered in the light of their impact on the residents living close?

You may feel the supportive goodwill of local residents is being stretched by these proposals.

The Wanstead we enjoy has become a vibrant centre for different arts activities over the years and this has been achieved through careful planning and cooperation culminating in the support of residents.

If you wish to appeal then make written representation to the licensing authority, the London Borough of Redbridge, Lynton House, 255-259 High Road, Ilford IG1 1NN quoting the application number 030782 and premises licence number L00516. Any objections must be under one or more of the four headings: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, protection of children from harm. Be quick, the deadline is today (Friday, March 12, 2021).

Or submit on an online form: https:eforms.redbridge.gov.uk/licencing-act-2003-representation-forms/

Richard Newcombe

By email