Stoke Newington barber wants to open speakeasy-style basement bar – but neighbours fear late-night noise

Cuts and Bruises barber shop in Stoke Newington. Image: Google

A speakeasy-style bar could open in the basement of a Stoke Newington barber shop if the owner gets the green light from councillors.

Cuts and Bruises on Stoke Newington High Street wants to sell cocktails from the bar on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Owner Kemal Mehmet has also asked for a licence to play recorded music from 7pm to 2am between Thursdays and Saturdays in the basement venue.

Mehmet told Hackney’s licensing committee: “I’m trying to create a low-lit ambiance, speakeasy-type environment for customers to sit down and enjoy drinks.”

He said there would be no live music and there would be a cap of 25 to 30 customers.

Mehmet outlined the dispersal policy and said there would be door staff to supervise customers.

He has had temporary entertainment licences for events for up to 70 people – some with live music and DJ sets – and said there had been no complaints.

“I want it to be a nice calm environment where people can enjoy cocktails.”

People will be able to book table space for two hours.

David Tuitt, Hackney Council’s licensing officer, was concerned about the late hours – beyond “core hours”.

Anne Towndrow spoke on behalf of residents and said fears include anti-social behaviour as people leave the premises.

She said: “A lot of people have their bedrooms at the front of the house.”

She added: “What it comes down to is numbers of people late at night and early morning being noisy.”

Cllr Anya Sizer wanted to know more about the policy to protect the safety of women and girls.

Mehmet said there would be bookings and records of people’s IDs, and the Ask Angela scheme to help women who are concerned on a night out will be promoted.

Committee chair Cllr Penny Wrout recommended the training on offer through the council, which highlights awareness about drink-spiking.

She said venues often ask for a licence for four hours at first to establish a track record before asking for extended opening hours.

Mehmet said he had had “bigger crowds with no issues” in the past.

Cllr Wrout suggested a licence to midnight on Thursdays and 1am on Friday and Saturday nights and a limit of 25 customers.

The committee’s decision will be published in five days.