Wetherspoons has applied to open a new pub with a capacity for 320 people at 11 Strand, next to Charing Cross station. The chain proposes operating hours from 7am to 11.30pm Monday to Thursday and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, according to a licensing application submitted to Westminster City Council.

The company has pledged to close at 10.30pm on Sundays and to employ door supervisors every night. For the first six weeks after opening, bouncers would also be present before 6pm, with further shifts scheduled as required based on risk assessments.

The site, previously a retail unit and café, has attracted objections from local residents who say the area already experiences high levels of crime and anti-social behaviour. Some have called for door supervisors to be on duty for the entire duration of the pub’s opening hours.

Residents also raised concerns over the proposed smoking area facing the station entrance. One wrote: "If that area is now blocked by smokers it will effectively half the width of access for those walking to the station (not wishing to walk on the road). For those arriving in London and exiting the station it is not right they should be immediately subjected to the sight and smell of those patrons smoking." Others requested an 11pm closing time to limit noise and prevent intoxicated customers spilling into surrounding streets. They cited recurring reports of late-night shouting, property damage, littering, and public urination. One objector said: "These issues are documented and recurring, particular after midnight. An 11pm closing time is therefore both reasonable and proportionate to protect amenity and public order."

In response, Wetherspoons said the venue will operate as a traditional pub with no music or similar entertainment. They cited other city-centre locations such as The Montagu Pyke on Charing Cross Road and The Moon Under Water in Leicester Square, which operate under similar conditions.

The pub will trade across two floors, upper and lower ground, with entry and exit restricted to the Charing Cross forecourt. No outdoor seating or off-sales of food and drink will be permitted. Wetherspoons said the site’s proximity to the station would aid dispersal of customers at closing time.

A written statement from the chain added:

"Careful consideration has been given to the Council's Statement of Licensing Policy and the licensing objectives in putting together the operating schedule and pre-consultation has taken place with Ayesha Bolton at Westminster City Council and Steve Muldoon at the Metropolitan Police. Meetings have also been held with local residents, local businesses, local councillors... As a result of those meetings a Dispersal Policy, Event Day Management Plan and Football Supporters Match Day Management Plan which accompany this application form part of the conditions put forward."

Image: Google Maps