A banqueting hall that was caught hosting an illegal rave last New Year’s Eve has been denied a licence to hold events.

Thamary Banqueting Hall, in Steele Road, was refused permission on the basis that its owner, Sabaratnam Suresh, did not have a complete “understanding of the responsibilities” of running a licensed premises.

Brent Council’s licensing committee said it was “not satisfied that he will uphold the objectives” required and that granting a licence now would be “premature”.

There were concerns around his request to hold events from 10am to 6am seven days a week and the potential impact this could have on the surrounding area.

It comes after Damien Smith, from the Metropolitan Police, said one of Mr Suresh’s tenants held an illegal rave at the hall.

He described a scene involving a makeshift bar, blocked fire exits, a non-slip floor and DJs with smoke machines.

Mr Suresh and his representative, Peter Shakeshaft, explained that they would primarily target Asian communities for daytime events but that there would also be a late-night option.

Esther Chan, licensing officer at Brent Council, said: “With conditions, this would be fair and appropriate.

“However, the applicant doesn’t have a clear business model. We do not have issues with christenings, weddings and birthdays.

“But late-night parties can attract crime and disorder. Certain DJs can attract gang activity and there is a risk that you can lose control of the events.”

Mr Shakeshaft said the proposed late-night events would be for those who traditionally celebrate in the evening, but that they would be sure to “keep away from youth trouble”.

He said: “There are some communities where they have late starts and late finishes.

“We are not interested in the kids as they can sometimes be more trouble than they are worth.

“We want to keep away from the youth – we want to attract those who want to have a sensible party with a bit of a drink and a dance.”

But business owners on the industrial estate where the hall is situated were unconvinced that this would be achieved.

James Burleigh, who runs a furniture business on Steele Road, agreed that the Indian wedding events he has seen at the site have been trouble-free.

But he explained how, following a late-night event, he arrived to piles of rubbish and laughing gas cannisters and, when he checked CCTV, saw “obvious drug deals” taking place and people “using the street as a public toilet”.

“I don’t think this is an appropriate use of the building,” he said. “The hours are excessive; it is of no benefit to the community and it could be damaging to the neighbours.”