A Turkish restaurant could have its licence after complaints it is operating ‘more like a nightclub’.
Police officers reported that people were allowed to smoke inside Alaturca Lounge in Brent, with a DJ playing loud music "regularly until 3am", when the premises are supposed to shut at 11pm.
Brent Council is reviewing the Kingsbury Road premises' licence after a catalogue of complaints from police and residents, including alleged noise, antisocial behaviour and opening beyond its agreed times since owner Gokcan Algul took over in April 2023.
The restaurant, in the park lodge at Roe Green Park, has been called an "absolute nuisance" by some neighbours, who complain of being repeatedly woken up in the early hours of the morning.
One resident in their 70s, who claims they suffer from age-related deafness, said even they have been woken up at 3am on several occasions.
Another said: “They play loud music into the early hours that can be heard inside my home and we are half a mile away across the park.
Neon Sign. Officers said the neon signs, DJ, and smokey room made the restaurant feel \'like a nightclub\'. Image Credit: Brent Council
"In addition the cars park on pavements and generally the patrons have no respect for the surrounding residents.”
They added: “I’m not sure the local park lodge should be operating as a nightclub at all.”
The police have been called to the premises on several occasions over the past year, including one incident in May 2023 where someone was attacked with a bottle, leaving them with a cut to the head, when they left the venue at around 2am.
Indoor Smoking. During one of their visits, police officers found customers were allowed to smoke inside the venue. Image Credit: Brent Council
During some of the many callouts to the restaurant, officers raised serious concerns about the venue. They noted that the interior "looks more like a nightclub"as it had loud music, neon lights on the walls, and people were allowed to smoke cigarettes and shisha.
An officer said: “It was clear that they were open well after their agreed licensing closing time with alcohol still being served and were allowing people to smoke inside the venue with no ventilation.”
Park Lodge. Some residents are angry that the park lodge is being used in this way. Image Credit: Google Maps
The police have advised the council that they have "little confidence" in the venue’s ability to rectify the situation.
Council licensing officers have recommended that Mr Algul’s licence be taken away after warnings were not heeded.
A decision will be made by Brent Council’s alcohol and licensing sub-committee on May 8.
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