Statement on Heaven

A Westminster City Council spokesperson said:

Following a request from the Metropolitan Police, and considering evidence from both the police and the operator, the council's licensing committee has decided to suspend Heaven's licence for 28 days.

"We recognise this venue's cultural significance but the committee agreed this step is necessary to prevent serious crime and protect the public. This follows a report of an alleged rape made to police on Friday, 1 November.

"A full licensing hearing will be held in December where both the police and venue management will have the opportunity to present new evidence.

"This case is currently subject of an ongoing police investigation, and we are unable to comment further at this stage. "

Notes

• The council held an extraordinary licensing hearing at the request of the Metropolitan Police (as responsible authority) on 15 November to address serious and urgent safety concerns.
• The police identified that a serious crime has been committed
• The Licensing Act requires the Council to consider the application of a responsible authority within 48hours of receipt.
• The 28 day suspension referenced started on November 13 and lasts until the full hearing which must take place on or before December 11

Details of the case are available here

A full recording of the committee will be available here

Published: 15 November 2024