A craft beer company is set to open its third bar and shop in South London after Lewisham Council approved changes to an existing premises licence on Tuesday, April 21. Craft 26 Ltd, the company behind Craft Metropolis, submitted a Variation of Premises Licence Application for 26B Sydenham Road in February, having taken over a venue that already held an alcohol licence.
Proposed Changes and Community Response
Several modifications were proposed to the existing licence, including renaming the venue, altering the layout, and amending licensable hours for the sale of alcohol both on and off the premises. The Licensing Sub-Committee of Lewisham Council unanimously approved the application during a meeting on Tuesday.
The venue had previously operated as a deli and coffee shop called Good Food, which closed in December 2025. A branch of Good Food in Catford remains open.
Craft 26's proposals received 10 responses, with three in support and seven objections. Councillor Jack Lavery, representing Sydenham Ward where the venue is located, expressed his support for the application. Supporters noted that it would mean "one less empty unit on the local high street" and praised the community ethos of existing Craft Metropolis venues in Penge and Brixton.
Opponents raised concerns about the sale of alcohol until 11pm daily and potential noise affecting nearby residents during evenings.
Director's Assurance
During the meeting, Oliver Meade, Director of Craft 26, said: "We provide a safe, relaxed space to enjoy drinks and create a nice atmosphere. We're a community-focused space, we're open-minded and have numerous regulars. We don't rely on transient footfall; we have to build our reputation on being a nice place and doing a nice thing and being able to supply a nice atmosphere; we're not a pub or a rowdy bar."
Mr. Meade stated he was "extremely willing" to work with residents who had raised objections and with the council. He added: "I want a place that is safe and happy and that I'm proud of. I don't want people to be upset, I don't want unhappy neighbours - I'm not in this to annoy anyone or get anyone's back up."
An agreement was reached between Mr. Meade and the council's licensing team to add a condition preventing customers from temporarily leaving to smoke at the front of the venue; instead, they will be directed to a designated smoking area at the back.
In his closing statement, Mr. Meade told the committee: "I wouldn't have chosen the location if I didn't think it would work or be an addition. I think what we do is really great fun, a really good service and it makes loads of people really happy."
