Some worry the scheme could cause problems “in an area already facing social challenges.”
The new store would be located on Rocky Lane
Fears have emerged that “the risk of fights and accidents” could increase if a new convenience store was allowed to serve alcohol in north Liverpool. A bid has been lodged with the city council for a business to set up shop on Rocky Lane in Anfield.
Keerthana Vivekanandan is seeking permission from the city council for a premises licence open to the public from 7am to midnight. The unit was formerly home to a plumbing business on the route into the city centre.
The proposals – which will go before a Liverpool Council panel for final sign off – have caused concern in the community, with a host of objections being submitted. Some have expressed fears that increased alcohol sales could add to problems “in an area already facing social challenges.”
In a bid to win over the licensing and gambling sub-committee which will preside over the plans next month, the applicant has agreed to put up signage at exits to request the co-operation of patrons to make as little noise as possible when leaving the premises.
There is to be no sale of super strength lager, beer and cider. These products will have a maximum ABV of 6.5%.
However, this has not persuaded residents to back the plans, with many submitting objections to the committee. One person wrote: “There are already high levels of alcohol-related antisocial behaviour in the area, including groups drinking on the streets, public drunkenness, and intimidation of passers-by.
“Increasing the number of outlets selling alcohol will only add to these problems and make it harder for the police and community to manage crime and disorder. Existing alcohol outlets already cause significant nuisance, including noise late at night, littering (particularly cans and bottles), and people congregating outside shops.
“Granting another licence will worsen these problems, making life unbearable for those living nearby.” Another person said they would usually support greater investment into L6 but this proved too far.
They wrote: “While I generally support local business development and entrepreneurship, I have serious concerns about the cumulative impact of additional alcohol retail in this area.
“The licensing objectives of preventing crime and disorder, ensuring public safety, and protecting children from harm would be better served by maintaining the current level of alcohol retail provision rather than increasing it in an area already facing social challenges.”
Another objector said: “Existing alcohol outlets already cause noise, litter, and late-night disturbances. Another licence would worsen these problems for nearby residents.
“Greater alcohol access increases the risk of fights and accidents. Extending sales to midnight would make residents feel even less safe.”
The plans will be considered by a three-person panel of councillors on November 13.