Neighbours oppose shop’s alcohol licence application
A convenience store seeking an alcohol licence faces opposition from neighbours amid claims booze sales are “out of control” in the area.
A Birmingham City Council licensing sub-committee meeting yesterday heard concerns from members of the public following the application by Anna Store in Reservoir Road, Erdington.
The shop’s owners intend to open and serve alcohol between 6am and 11pm seven days a week – but opponents say “this will encourage crime and anti-social behaviour”.
Four letters of objection were received by the council’s licensing team – although West Midlands Police made no objections provided conditions are met around CCTV.
The letters state there are “more than enough late night shops selling alcohol” and that the area has “a lot of issues” with drug use and selling.
Malcolm Oliver, a member of the public who spoke at the meeting to oppose the application, said: “My concern is about the overall alcohol provision in the area which I think is out of control.
“I don’t think it’s right to morally and ethically add to that problem just because it happens elsewhere.
“The next one will open and the next one will open. There’s got to be answer somewhere that says no, this is enough.
“I am sorry that [this application] is going to be the one that one which I continue to say this is the issue.
“What I am concerned about is the health and safety of the community, not least the health and safety of young people who do not need to see people who are somewhat under the influence of alcohol walking up and down the road in the morning.
“I think it sets a bad example and I think it’s actually dangerous and intimidating to young people and their parents.”
Patrick Burke, representing the shop, said: “It needs to be emphasised that there are four objections from local residents, no objections from any responsible authorities and no objections from police.
“I think it should also be stressed that my client has a wealth of experience in this business. Her parents have both run shops previously and they are going to help her out at this shop as well.
“This is a closed shop and there are very few people brave enough to take on new businesses particularly in the climate we are in today.”
The sub-committee – including chair Councillor Phil Davis, Councillor Mary Locke and Councillor Bob Beauchamp – is due to make a decision within five days.
