Tong Road Shop Denied Permission for 24-Hour Alcohol Sales
A local shop’s request for 24-hour alcohol sales was denied due to community concerns over alcohol-related issues
Armley, West Yorkshire, Alcohol Sales, Community Issues, Crime
During the hearing, it was pointed out that allowing 24-hour sales could make anti-social behavior even worse. West Yorkshire Police and the council’s public health team both raised concerns about the impact of more alcohol in the community.
Rand Hussein, who represented the shop, argued that the extended hours would help night shift workers in nearby warehouses. She insisted they were just trying to support the community. But the police weren’t having it. They reported a staggering 845 crimes and 174 arrests in the area over the past year.
Councillor Andy Parnham echoed the police’s worries, saying vulnerable residents live close by. He felt that extending alcohol sales would be a disaster for the community.
The council’s environmental health team also objected, citing potential noise issues. They believe the community doesn’t need a shop selling alcohol 24/7. In the end, the licensing sub-committee unanimously rejected the request during the hearing on January 7.