A new shop set to open near a student accommodation complex and a bail hostel in Swansea has faced objections and concerns over its proposed trading conditions. The shop, located at the St Davids student accommodation on New Cut Road, has applied for a premises licence to sell alcohol from 9am to 11pm every day. However, there have been fears raised at a Swansea Council licensing meeting that allowing the sale of alcohol at the shop could lead to an increase in anti-social behaviour in the area.
The shop owners have assured the council that they will comply with any imposed conditions, including restrictions on selling single cans with alcohol content above 6.5%. Despite this assurance, local residents and councillors have expressed worries about the potential impact of the shop on the community. Councillors Mike White and Beverley Hopkins highlighted concerns about “unruly” student behaviour in the area, as well as issues with people from the nearby bail hostel asking for money from residents.
Adding to the concerns is the history of anti-social incidents in the vicinity, including drinking, drug-taking, and assaults in a nearby tunnel. Residents of the Llais Tawe complex off New Cut Road have been vocal about their frustrations and have called for better solutions to address these ongoing issues. The licencing sub-committee, chaired by Cllr Penny Matthews, has considered these concerns and imposed restrictions on the types of alcohol that can be sold at the shop.
The applicants, 3S Retail Ltd, have outlined plans to ensure the safety and security of the shop premises, including the installation of CCTV cameras and adequate lighting outside the store. The proximity of other alcohol-selling outlets, such as Lidl and Home Bargains at Parc Tawe, has also been mentioned as a point of consideration in the discussions. Concerns have also been raised about parking issues in the area, with reports of conflicts over parking spaces and disruptions for local residents.
While some objections have been submitted against the shop’s licence application, there is also support from at least one individual who believes that the presence of similar establishments in the area negates the need to object to this particular shop. The licencing sub-committee will review all feedback and objections before making a final decision on whether to grant the premises licence to the shop. The stakeholders involved, including residents, councillors, and the shop owners, are all invested in finding a resolution that ensures the safety and well-being of the local community.
The potential impact of the shop on the neighbourhood highlights the importance of balancing commercial interests with community concerns. As discussions continue, it will be crucial for all parties to collaborate and find solutions that address the underlying issues of anti-social behaviour and safety in the area. Stay tuned for updates on the outcome of the licencing decision and the measures put in place to address the concerns raised by residents and stakeholders.