A new convenience store in Cardiff has sparked concerns among residents in the local community. The store, set to open on 115 Caerphilly Road, has been granted permission to sell alcohol until the early hours of the morning, a move that has raised eyebrows and objections from local residents and councillors alike. The proposed opening hours, extending until midnight throughout the week, have drawn criticism from residents in Birchgrove, who fear potential issues such as increased anti-social behaviour, littering, parking problems, and noise disturbances in the area.
Local councillor Cllr Graham Hinchey pointed out that there are currently no shops in Birchgrove that operate beyond 10pm, describing the neighbourhood as a “delicate ecosystem” that could suffer if the new convenience store alters the existing dynamics. Cllr Mike Ash-Edwards echoed these sentiments, warning that allowing the store to open until midnight could be a troubling development for the community. Residents, including Simon Grives and Pamela Davies, expressed their concerns during a Cardiff Council licensing sub-committee meeting, urging authorities to reconsider the proposed operating hours of the shop.
Shop owner Santhosh Reddy Ashireddy initially sought to keep the store open until 2am during the week, but after discussions with the police, the hours were adjusted. Licensing consultant Ian Rushton vouched for Mr. Ashireddy’s experience in running licensed premises, assuring council members that necessary measures were in place to address any potential issues. However, residents like Richard Davies and Emma Gammon remained unconvinced, highlighting existing problems with litter and anti-social behaviour in the area and emphasising the need to safeguard the community’s well-being.
Councillors Hinchey and Ash-Edwards emphasised the importance of preserving Birchgrove’s unique character and expressed doubts about the necessity of extending the store’s operating hours. Concerns over increased noise levels, potential parking challenges, and the precedent that allowing midnight opening times could set were at the forefront of discussions. Despite reassurances from Mr. Rushton about the owner’s responsible operations and measures to tackle anti-social behaviour, residents and councillors continued to voice apprehensions about the impact of the new convenience store on the local environment.
Ultimately, the Cardiff Council’s licensing sub-committee approved the licensing application for the convenience store, subject to conditions stipulated by South Wales Police. While the decision has been made, the concerns and objections raised by residents and councillors reflect a broader conversation about balancing commercial interests with community well-being. With a focus on protecting Birchgrove’s community and ecosystem, the ongoing dialogue surrounding the convenience store serves as a reminder of the importance of considering local impacts and preserving neighbourhood dynamics in the face of new developments.