Cleaves Express in Orpington Granted Alcohol Licence Despite Resident Objections

Orpington, within the London Borough of Bromley, has seen a local licensing decision that has drawn considerable community attention. A new convenience store, Cleaves Express, located on Cleave Avenue, has been granted a premises licence to sell alcohol. This decision was made despite numerous objections from residents concerned about potential impacts on the neighbourhood.

The Details

Bromley Council's Licensing Sub-Committee approved the new premises application for Cleaves Express at 4 Cleave Avenue, Orpington, Kent BR6 7HB, following a meeting on Monday 23 March 2026. The application, submitted by Mr Yathurshan Srithevar, sought permission to supply alcohol for off-premises consumption daily from 07:30 to 23:00. The committee's decision, which has only recently been made public, came after considering 22 objections from local residents. Conditions attached to the licence include the operation of a comprehensive CCTV system, implementation of a Challenge 25 policy, and mandatory staff training in the Licensing Act 2003 and conflict management.

Community Impact

Residents voiced strong opposition to the licence, citing fears of increased antisocial behaviour, traffic problems, and a negative impact on children in the area. Concerns were raised about "unwanted individuals" potentially causing shoplifting, damage, and disrupting the peace. Councillor Jonathan Andrews, representing Darwin ward, spoke on behalf of eight residents at the March meeting, outlining these objections. The applicant's consultant, Mr Kheng, argued that the premises would operate as a small convenience shop without late-night drinking and that there was no evidence to suggest future problems.

Planning Your Visit

Cleaves Express is located at 4 Cleave Avenue, Orpington, Kent BR6 7HB. The nearest railway station is Orpington, which is part of the South Eastern Main Line and falls within London fare zone 6. Orpington station is approximately a 15-minute walk or a short bus ride from the High Street and The Walnuts Shopping Centre. Pro-Tip: Orpington station is well-served by local bus routes, with stops just a minute's walk away.

Source Verification

This report is based on data from Bromley Council's Licensing Sub-Committee proceedings and related news reports.

Source Link: https://pp.bromley.gov.uk/registers/index.html?fa=licence_register

MORE: South London Commuters Rally Round Struggling Mum on Orpington Train — https://southlondonnews.com/2026/04/16/south-london-commuters-rally-round-struggling-mum-on-orpington-train/

MORE: Fallen Sign Blocks Pavement on Blandford Road in Bromley, Creating Hazard — https://southlondonnews.com/2026/04/15/fallen-sign-blocks-pavement-on-blandford-road-in-bromley-creating-hazard/

MORE: Bromley Council warns residents of gardener and cleaner scams — https://southlondonnews.com/2026/04/16/bromley-council-warns-residents-of-gardener-and-cleaner-scams/