Sheffield convenience store allowed to sell alcohol - neighbours worried about noise and nuisance
A Sheffield convenience store has been allowed to sell alcohol but only until 10pm, an hour earlier than requested.
Three neighbours objected to the application for an off licence at Norton Lees Local on Derbyshire Lane on grounds that included the potential for anti-social behaviour and nuisance, litter and parking pressures.
Objectors pointed out that there is already a Co-op nearby which sells alcohol.
The noisy shutters on the shop were also mentioned because of the potential for late-night disturbance.
New owner Rangeswaran Theiventhiram was supported by previous owner John Theaker at a hearing of Sheffield City Council’s licensing sub-committee on Tuesday, July 7.
Objections
Mr Theaker said that a Facebook post from objectors to the off licence application attracted 48 comments in favour and was quickly removed.
He said that the Co-op is 500 yards away from the shop but that is a long way for someone with mobility problems.
Mr Theiventhiram said he had applied for a licence from 5am to 11pm to give flexibility to the business.
“At the moment we are open until 9pm but I don’t want to come back and ask again [if that changes],” he said.
Mr Theiventhiram said he fully respected and appreciated the views of residents. He said it was his intention to operate the premises responsibly and in accordance with all licensing rules.
He added: “At the end of the day, we need to work with the community. It is a local convenience store.
Assurance
“They are the customers, they are the base of the business. Whatever we have to do, we will do.”
Committee chair Councillor Peter Gilbert asked for an assurance that the manual shutters complained about would be replaced quickly by quieter electric ones. Mr Theaker said that they had already been ordered.
Coun Gilbert joked: “This is an open and shutter case.”
There was further amusement during the meeting that a pigeon had got into the council chamber and was watching the proceedings from a high perch.
Licensing services officer Jayne Gough said that the pigeon’s cooing was “quite nice”. Coun Gilbert thanked the bird for its attendance at the end of the hearing.