Keystone Law licensing barrister Marcus Lavell, solicitor Andrew Wong and licensing co-ordinator Darren O’Leary have successfully obtained a new Premises Licence for the iconic The Windmill Theatre in Soho, London.

The Windmill Theatre, as seen in blockbuster film Mrs Henderson Presents, was granted a new 5am, 350-customer-capacity licence by Westminster Council on 1 April 2021. Situated in the heart of the West End Stress Area, this application needed to adhere to the area’s strict policy. The success of this application is a much-needed boost for the West End’s leisure and hospitality industry as it emerges from COVID lockdown.

Having been through difficult times, the previously dilapidated building is now being redeveloped into a performance venue with a 250-seat main auditorium and 100-capacity theatre lounge.

Commenting on the successful outcome, Marcus Lavell said:

“This was a challenging application, especially in Westminster’s West End Stress Area. Working closely with the Police and the Local Authority, we were able to facilitate the client’s goal of preserving and enhancing this iconic site, whilst promoting the Licensing Objectives, and in doing so, obtaining one of the very few new licences to be granted in this area. We are delighted to have helped our client in their journey to return The Windmill Theatre to its former glory, especially during a critical time for the leisure and hospitality sector.”

Keystone’s full-service Licensing team has years of experience in dealing with both simple and complex requirements. Working closely with colleagues in other areas of law, such as property, planning, regulatory law and contracts, the team can provide the right advice to ensure that there is no delay in obtaining the correct licences and permissions.

Philip Kolvin QC of 11 KBW worked alongside Keystone Law’s team on this matter, and was the client’s advocate at the hearing before Westminster’s Licensing Sub-Committee.

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