Armed robbery-hit Kingswinford store to have licence reviewed
A shop which was the scene of an armed robbery where workers were threatened with a gun will have its alcohol licence reviewed.
It comes after representations were made by immigration officials, West Midlands Police and Dudley Council Trading Standards officers about the Spar Store.
Dudley Council’s licensing sub-committee will meet next week to discuss whether the shop, on Lapwood Avenue, Kingswinford, can continue to sell beers, spirits and wines.
An application to review the premises licence was lodged with the authority just a month after the shop was attacked by three robbers – one of whom had a firearm.
In a report to members of the licensing committee, council officers have said: “On the 30th September 2019, an application for the review of the premises licence was received from the public protection manager.
“The grounds for the review relate to the prevention of crime and disorder and the protection of children from harm.”
Representations in support of the application have been received from the HM Immigration Department, Licensing Authority, Public Health and the West Midlands Police.
In October, 40-year-old Emma Gwilliams admitted her role in the robbery at Wolverhampton Crown Court.
The mother-of-three was sentenced to 52 months after pleading guilty to two counts of robbery and possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear.
Police have since said a 32-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of robbery but released with no further action.
Dudley councillors will discuss the licence review at their meeting on Tuesday.
