Brent Council approves Jamaican Independence Day garden party despite police warnings

A garden party celebrating Jamaican Independence Day will go ahead in Willesden this weekend after Brent Council’s Licensing Sub-Committee approved a Temporary Event Notice, despite warnings from the Metropolitan Police about the risk of gang violence and antisocial behaviour. The event, organised by Tammy Mpitu, will take place at a residential property on Marian Way on 7 and 8 August, but with stricter conditions than originally proposed.

The committee reduced the event’s hours from the initial 8pm to 4am window to 2pm, midnight. Alcohol sales will be permitted only between 8pm and 11pm, and two SIA-accredited security officers must be present. These changes were made after police raised concerns about the event’s potential to attract large crowds and exacerbate existing issues in the area.

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Police warned of risks in residential area

Police Sergeant Michael Sullivan told the committee the event was being advertised on social media with £10 tickets, meaning attendance would not be limited to friends and family. He said the ticketed nature and online promotion could lead to higher-than-expected turnout, making the event difficult to manage in a residential setting.

Sullivan also highlighted the location’s history of serious violence, gang activity and drug dealing. He said the combination of alcohol sales, late-night entertainment and an unlicensed venue posed a significant risk of crime and disorder. The garden, he noted, lacked the infrastructure and controls expected for an event of this scale.

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““This is not being presented as a private gathering of family and friends, the event is actively being advertised on social media with tickets being sold for £10. As a result, the attendance is open to the wider public and likely to attract individuals unknown to the organiser.””

Police Sergeant Michael Sullivan

Organiser agreed to changes to secure approval

Mpitu initially applied for the event to run from 8pm to 4am but agreed to reduce the hours after discussions with council officers. She told the committee the change made her feel more secure. She also said tickets were being sold online to avoid problems at the door.

Mpitu explained she could not afford a licensed venue and would rely on security measures at her home, including CCTV and two security guards. She said the event was intended to support her family in Jamaica. The committee accepted her assurances but imposed the conditions to mitigate risks.

Committee satisfied conditions reduce risks

The Licensing Sub-Committee’s decision stated the modified hours, limited alcohol sales and presence of security officers sufficiently reduced the risks identified by police. The event may proceed as long as it adheres to these conditions. No further appeals or reviews are scheduled.

Local residents were not directly consulted during the licensing process. The committee’s decision was based on the application, police objections and Mpitu’s amendments. The Metropolitan Police have not indicated whether they will increase patrols in the area during the event.