Portchester residents unanimously object to plans for 24/7 off-licence in precinct as Fareham Borough Council adjourns decision
Plans for a new 24-hour off-licence in a quiet precinct have sparked outrage from nearby residents.
Earlier this year, plans were submitted to Fareham Borough Council for permission to sell alcohol 24/7 at 40-42 West Street, Portchester. The retail unit is where Portchester Poundwise had stood before closing last year, having previously been the site of Quids In, and Mr Cheap prior to that.
The licence application suggests that the store will become a 24-hour off-licence, subject to approval from the council. But if residents in Portchester get their way, councillors will instead be rejecting the proposals.
During the 28-day consultation period, a total of 12 representations were submitted, all of which objected to the application.
Writing to Fareham Borough Council, resident Philip Southcott said: “I am concerned that granting this licence could pose risks to the safety of local residents, particularly due to the proximity of the property to residential homes in Jubilee Road and King George Road. There are many occupants who have young families, children under eight and a number of elderly residents living in the area on their own.
“The granting of this licence may lead to an increase in crime or disorder in the area, illegal parking in Jubilee Road, rubbish including cans and bottles being discarded, and public order offences in the precinct which is already facing challenges in this regard.”
Another resident, Barry Gorman, added: “There is no clear evidence of community need for a 24-hour off-licence in Portchester. Existing retail provision already meets reasonable demand during appropriate trading hours.
“Extending alcohol sales to a 24-hour basis serves commercial interests but provides no clear community benefit.
“The small gain in one less empty retail premises of this type will likely generate unnecessary extra cost in policing and overall well-being of the local community.”
The licence application had initially been scheduled to go before Fareham Borough Council on Tuesday, March 24, but has since been adjourned until Tuesday, April 21.