A potential increase in anti-social behaviour (ASB) and the proximity to a school are some of the objections received in relation to a proposed Liverpool off-licence.
Applicant Kalatharan Nagartnam is seeking to secure a premises licence for Tamil Convenience Store, at Centec Business Centre, Stopgate Lane. According to a report submitted to Liverpool Council ’s licensing and gambling sub-committee, the business will operate as “a general convenience store selling a wide range of goods including groceries, soft drinks, cigarettes, dairy goods, snacks, confectionery”.
The licence application also seeks to open from 7am to 11pm daily, selling alcohol throughout its trading hours. While there have been no objections from the licensing authority, Merseyside Police and environmental health, 10 residents have expressed their concerns about the plans.
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In written observations, residents have expressed fears about an increase in anti-social behaviour on Stopgate Lane with worries that gangs could congregate outside. The increase of ASB would lead to “mental anguish” for the residents, it was stated.
One of the representations submitted to the committee claimed there was no need for another off-licence in the area given the location of a supermarket, garage and Bargain Booze store nearby. Further representations claimed that the site would not be appropriate given its proximity to a primary school.
The document said: “There are residential properties surrounding these premises, and just across the road too. These are three bedroomed semi-detatched houses for the most part, built for families.
“Young children could be at risk from abuse, and they could witness unsavoury behaviour. This could be distressing for them.”
Earlier closure times, increased policing and further road cleaning were put forward by residents as potential considerations for the applicant to mitigate the concerns. The proposals will be heard by the local authority licensing and sub-committee next week.
The councillors, who will meet at Liverpool Town Hall, will consider if the application meets the licensing objectives of preventing crime and disorder; public safety; the prevention of public nuisance and the protection of children from harm.
