A CHINESE restaurant faces a review of its licence called over alleged “criminality at the licensed premises by a member of the management”.

Zen City, in Hamlet Court Road, Westcliff, will be subject of a licensing review at Southend Council on the grounds that the “prevention of crime and disorder is being undermined”.

The Echo has attempted to contact the management at Zen City on more than three separate occasions, however management has been unable to provide a comment at this stage.

According to Essex Police, the application for a licence review was submitted by the immigration service, however the Home Office has stated “it is longstanding government policy” to not comment on individual cases.

Milton Labour councillor, Maxine Sadza, said: “It is such a shame for such a prominent business. Zen City has been on Hamlet Court Road for so many years and given good service to so many residents.

“It is a shame this has happened, and it could mean a large loss of employment for many if it loses its licence. More than anything, it is a shame for the business and the area.”

A spokesperson for Southend Council, said: “An application for a review of a premises license is currently in progress for Zen Chinese Restaurant at 123 to 125 Hamlet Court Road, Westcliff, on the grounds of the prevention of crime and disorder by way of alleged criminality at the licensed premises.

“Representations must be received by April 23 after which a licensing sub-committee hearing will be convened to make a determination.

“All parties will then be notified in writing of the outcome before entering a 21-day appeal period from the date of the decision. No further comment can be made during this time.”