The future of a new Ghanaian restaurant in Smethwick hangs in the balance as Sandwell Council's licensing committee prepares to make a crucial decision following formal objections from emergency services. Kotoburaba restaurant, which opened on Claremont Road in Cape Hill on Christmas Eve last year, faces a licensing hearing that will determine whether it can continue operating with its current proposals.
Police Raise Significant Safety Concerns
West Midlands Police have formally objected to the restaurant's licence application, requesting substantial changes to the proposed operating conditions. The police force has specifically asked for the establishment's closing time to be brought forward to 10pm from the proposed midnight, citing concerns about crime prevention and public safety during later hours.
Music and Alcohol Restrictions Requested
In addition to the earlier closing time, West Midlands Police have requested the removal of live and recorded music from the licence application. The force expressed concerns that without this restriction, the venue could effectively operate as a "late-night bar" rather than a restaurant. Police clarified that low-level background music would remain permissible without requiring licensing, but formal permission for music performances should be excluded.
The police statement emphasised: "No vertical drinking shall take place at the premises, and all alcohol sales will be ancillary to the purchase of food." This condition aims to ensure the venue maintains its primary function as a dining establishment rather than transforming into a drinking venue during evening hours.
Fire Service Maintains Objection
West Midlands Fire Service has also maintained its objection to the licence application, despite having discussions with restaurant owner Dorcas Enstie. The fire service has not formally withdrawn its concerns, adding another layer of scrutiny to the application process. Both emergency services' objections focus on four key licensing objectives: prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm.
Council Report Highlights Concerns
A Sandwell Council report published ahead of the February 10th committee meeting confirms that objections centre on concerns that these fundamental licensing objectives "would be undermined" by the current proposals. The report provides the framework for committee members to consider when making their decision about the restaurant's future operations.
Decision Date Set
The licensing committee meeting is scheduled for February 10th, where members will review all evidence and submissions before reaching a final decision. The outcome will determine whether Kotoburaba restaurant can continue operating with its current proposed hours and conditions, or whether it must implement the changes requested by emergency services.
The restaurant, which has been promoting itself through social media channels since its Christmas Eve opening, now faces a critical juncture in its early development. The licensing committee's decision will establish the operational parameters for the Ghanaian dining establishment and set precedents for how similar venues in the area might be regulated in future.
