Spice Club, a restaurant located in Bridgwater at 10a Eastover, is under threat of losing its premises licence due to serious breaches of immigration and employment laws. Following multiple inspections by Home Office Immigration Enforcement between 2019 and 2024, the venue has been found repeatedly employing individuals without legal authorization to work in the UK.
The Licensing Sub-Committee of Somerset Council will review the licence status at a hearing scheduled for Tuesday, May 27. The Home Office has submitted an application citing the restaurant’s failure to comply with licensing objectives, particularly concerning the prevention of crime and disorder linked to illegal working practices.
Inspection reports reveal that illegal workers were discovered during three separate visits over several years, with some individuals found working illegally on multiple occasions. Despite holding a licence since July 2021 allowing recorded music, late-night refreshment, and alcohol sales, Spice Club has allegedly become a hotspot for unlawful employment practices.
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Previously, the company Mar Catering Ltd, which operated the premises, faced £60,000 in civil penalties in 2019 after similar findings. Although that company has since entered liquidation, a subsequent enforcement visit in September 2024 prompted renewed action and potential penalties.
Investigations disclosed that some workers were compensated with free food, rent-free accommodation, and occasional cash payments. Many had overstayed their visas or violated employment restrictions tied to their immigration status. Interview records indicated a lack of proper pre-employment checks or vetting.
The manager present at the latest visit admitted that some individuals were “helping out” without formal employment contracts, but the Home Office categorizes this as illegal work, violating licensing rules designed to prevent crime.
No opposing views or representations have been submitted by local authorities or the public regarding the licence review. The Home Office is pushing for licence revocation, arguing that lesser measures, such as additional licence conditions or suspension, would fail to deter ongoing illegal practices.
Under the Licensing Act 2003, the committee will decide whether to alter licence conditions, remove the designated premises supervisor, suspend, or revoke the licence entirely. The licence holder has the right to appeal any decision within 21 days at the Magistrates Court.
A final ruling is expected after the hearing on May 27.