Cambridge City Council is urging businesses to ensure that they have the relevant premises licences and are compliant with smoking regulations following the prosecution of a Cambridge based restaurant.

The Commercial and Licensing team can provide advice and guidance to local businesses to ensure they are acting responsibly and are compliant with regulations. Part of the team’s work involves regularly carrying out inspections and investigating complaints.

The council has acted against Sunset Lounge, Cherry Hinton Road, Cambridge, for selling alcohol despite not having a licence and for allowing customers to smoke inside the premises.

At the end of last year, council officers carried out a test purchase to check that the restaurant was acting in compliance with licensing and smoking regulations. This was a result of a complaint that alcohol was being sold at the premises, and that smoking was being permitted in an enclosed shisha lounge.

Before the visit, the council attempted to work with the restaurant to ensure it was being compliant with the law. The restaurant had previously been under investigation by the police. The police were able to share information with the council which assisted with the council’s investigations into this matter.

In court, the restaurant pleaded guilty to smoke free and licensing offences. They were ordered to pay a total of £8,000, including costs.

Cllr Rosy Moore, Cabinet Member for Climate Action and Environment, said: “We are keen to continue to support businesses in Cambridge to ensure that they are operating responsibly and thriving.

“It is important for everyone’s safety and wellbeing that businesses are compliant with relevant legislation. Licensing requirements and regulations are in place to safeguard anyone purchasing a product or a service. They should not be ignored.

“If you own a business and aren’t sure what licences you might need or if you are complying with regulation, please contact the council so you can get the support you need.”

For support with entertainment and alcohol licences, visit: cambridge.gov.uk/alcohol-and-entertainment-licensing

The case was heard a Peterborough Magistrates’ Court on 7 May 2025.