New African restaurant to open in Kent but it can't have 24hr alcohol licence or play music until 3am

An application for a licence to sell alcohol and to host live music at a new African restaurant has been approved but with significant changes.

Medway Council's licensing hearing panel met on May 27 to consider the proposal for Oceanic Eats X Àmàlà Buka in Cuxton Road, Strood.

Members heard from owner Esther Beyond who wanted a 24-hour alcohol licence and to be able to play live music until 3am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 1am on Sundays. The application also stated the restaurant, which specialises in Nigerian cuisine, would be open all day every day of the year.

Councillors who were against the idea of allowing round-the-clock permission to sell alcohol also addressed the panel.

Despite their fears, permission for alcohol sales and live music was granted – but with much-changed h