Plans for alfresco drinking at a new upmarket Italian restaurant have been criticised by councillors and residents who fear it could lead to “drunkenness and anti-social behaviour”.
Bombetta, the new deli and eatery in Station Approach, Wanstead, will appear before Redbridge Council’s licensing sub-committee today, to apply to serve alcohol until 10.30pm on weekdays and 11pm on weekends.
The restaurant has reached an agreement with Redbridge Police for the premises licence, which states alcoholic drinks shall only be served with food, CCTV will be in operation and all staff will be trained.
In documents sent to the council, manager Joanna Anastasiou-Milne said: “We have no intention on operating a bar/snack environment.”
Bombetta, located in the old dry cleaners next to Snaresbrook Tube, describes itself as a new Italian grill concept, which is part restaurant, part deli.
The manager added: “This will minimise any potential disturbance to the local community as alcohol will be served in a controlled environment and as a preventative measure signs and visible CCTV will be fitted so clients/public are aware.”
But Snaresbrook’s three Conservative councillors have objected to drinks being served outside the restaurant.
In a letter to the sub-committee Cllr Chris Cummins, Cllr Colin Cronin and Cllr Suzanne Nolan wrote they have concerns over “public safety, protection of children from harm and public nuisance”.
They explained: “The immediate proximity of the restaurant to the station means that cars turning to return down the slope would endanger customers consuming alcohol.”
Several residents also objected to the upmarket eatery’s application.
Rayman Suneja, of the adjacent road The Rise, said the hours could be “very disruptive”.
He added: “Consumption of alcohol inevitably leads to increased noise levels and the potential for drunkenness and anti-social behaviour.”
Richard Kingswood, also of The Rise, said customers drinking outside “would be totally unacceptable”.
Bombetta has been contacted for comment.
The deli has already opened, while the fine dining area is taking reservations for August 10.
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