Licence blow for takeaway
A GLASGOW kebab shop that opened until 2am despite not having permission has been refused a licence.
Real Madras, in Cathcart, which has suffered from a raft of problems, lost its bid to be allowed to open into the early hours.
A GLASGOW kebab shop that stayed opened late despite not having permission has been refused a licence.
Real Madras, which has suffered from a raft of problems, including being shut down due to rat droppings, were discussed by councillors when the owner tried to get a late licence.
The licensing committee heard how the owner of the takeaway in Clarkston Road, Cathcart, had been opening late anyway, despite not having permission.
A letter from Councillor Margaret Morgan, who represents the ward, flagged up issues, including a poor filtration system blowing carbon monoxide into people’s houses and making them smell like fried food.
This has now been fixed and Environmental Health has given it a clean report.
There were also complaints of people hanging around the close at the shop late at night and into the early hours.
Neighbours objected to the late licence at the takeaway.
A lawyer representing Real Madras said the owner was not aware of the restrictions on the opening hours and, when it was brought to his attention, he “immediately reverted to the hours”.
Real Madras wanted to make its case to remain open until 3am.
Councillors were furious the takeaway was advertising as open until 2am despite not having a licence,
However, the lawyer pointed out it had not actually been operating in those hours.
Councillors also criticised a lack of consultation with angry neighbours.
Questions were asked whether the takeaway had reached out to engage with neighbours, but councillors were told it had not.
However, the lawyer hit back, claiming it is not a “moral” issue, but a “legal” issue.
The takeaway does not have to consult with neighbours beyond placing a notice of its intentions to open later up.
Councillor Graham Campbell said: “I have to note your dismissive contempt for people living in the close.”
Earlier this year, a notice was served and the shop closed when rat droppings were found.
A whole new approach to hygiene has been adopted since, including changing the way rubbish is stored.
But Councillor Robert Connelly said: “This is very concerning for public safety, for people eating food, if there have been rats in your shop.”
Councillor Rhiannon Spear said: “As the committee knows, I love a kebab, but the operating hours are not displayed – this is false advertising.”
The application to extend the opening hours was blocked.