Brighton Pizza and Chicken secured permission for extended hours despite police objections citing crime.
They got permission to sell food until 4 AM, even though police and the city council weren’t happy about it. They usually closed at 2 AM on weekends and midnight on weekdays.
The new owner is Javid Omare who completed a security course, something the police specifically requested.
During a meeting on February 4, a police officer mentioned the area has lots of crime, citing 469 incidents, most of which occurred during the day, and many were violent.
The officer believes late-night food attracts drunk people who then linger in the area, even though the establishment itself doesn’t sell alcohol.
Incorrect hours were once listed online, wrongly stating that they were open until 2 AM daily, but Omare fixed the website. Also, Google listed an 11 PM closing time.
They are restricted to using only their own drivers for deliveries, meaning no Deliveroo or Uber Eats. They are also prohibited from having outdoor seating.
Currently, their permitted opening hours are noon to 2 AM, Sunday through Thursday. On Friday and Saturday, they can stay open until 4 AM.
Three council members, John Hewitt, Paul Nann, and Alison Thomson, all Labour councillors, made this decision.
The council believes the late-night hours won’t cause problems, reasoning that the area’s existing problems occur during the day, making extra issues unlikely.