A convenience store has been granted a drinks licence despite objections from neighbours.
Cookes, on the corner of Montefiore Road and Davigdor Road, Hove, can sell alcohol from 8am to 10pm from Monday to Saturday and from 9am to 10pm on Sunday.
Hiral Patel, who took over the shop in April and also owns Wilson News, in Davigdor Road, originally proposed selling alcohol until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, contrary to local licensing policy.
The decision to grant the licence was made by a Brighton and Hove City Council licensing panel which held a hearing on Wednesday 25 June.
The panel heard from Labour councillor Jackie O’Quinn, who represents Goldsmid ward and used to chair the council’s Licensing Committee.
She spoke on behalf of residents who objected to the application, telling the panel that there were already two off-licences in the shopping parade.
People living in the area were worried about the possibility of more crime and anti-social behaviour in the area with the prospect of another premises selling alcohol.
The council said that the panel – made up of councillors Nann, Ivan Lyons and Kerry Pickett – recognised neighbours’ concerns but had to give consideration to licensing law.
In its decision letter, the council said: “The applicant has agreed not to do any alcohol deliveries which was a cause for concern.
“The applicant clearly has relevant local experience and a good track record.
“Ultimately, the panel considers that granting this amended application is not likely to undermine the licensing objectives or add to issues in the area.”
I don’t see what the fuss is all about. I don’t see how one more place selling alcohol is going to increase crime or antisocial behaviour.
Get the beers in. 🍺
The point is there are now 3 off licences within a few doors of each other. Alcohol consumption rates directly correlate with the availability of licensed establishments. Increasing the number of liquor licenses results in higher consumption, which leads to health-related issues, such as liver disease and mental health disorders. Consequently, areas with lenient licensing policies experience elevated prevalence rates of alcohol-related issues such as anti-social behaviour, addiction and health issues. Concentrating 3 licences in a small area will attract such incidents and societal problems.