Reading takeaways selling hot food without licence

During weekend enforcement checks by Council licensing officers on Wokingham Road, Reading, several takeaways were found selling hot food and drinks without the necessary licences. On September 20, inspections were carried out at eight businesses in East Reading to ensure compliance with the Licensing Act 2003, which prohibits selling hot food after 11pm without a late-night refreshment licence.

The regulations aim to prevent alcohol-fuelled crime and disorder, often associated with late-night gathering spots like fast-food takeaways. Of the eight premises inspected, four were found selling food or drink without the required licence: Chaiiwala Reading, Munchiies Desserts and Ice Cream, and Biryani Lounge.

Chaiiwala had permission to operate within agreed hours but lacked a licence to serve after 11pm, while Munchiies and Biryani Lounge had no planning permission for hot food sales but still offered food to officers. The businesses were warned of potential prosecution, which could result in unlimited fines or up to six months in prison.

An undercover follow-up visit to Chaiiwala on October 18 revealed continued non-compliance, prompting further enforcement action. Karen Rowland, Lead Councillor for Environmental Services and Community Safety, emphasized the importance of adhering to regulations to maintain fairness for all businesses.