“Harmful to the community”: backlash over proposed Albert Road off-licence

Sentha Retail Limited has applied to Portsmouth City Council to open an off-licence at the former Southsea Cycles site, 235–237 Albert Road.

If approved, the “Albert Road Community Store” would sell alcohol, snacks and hot drinks from 7am until 1am the following day.

The application prompted criticism from Brian Morton, owner of nearby coffee shop Hunter Gatherer, after a notice appeared at the site.

He told the Local Democracy Reporting Service he was shocked and disappointed by the proposal, saying the road already has “another shop selling cheap alcohol, high processed foods and sugar”.

He added it would be “harmful to the community” because it is directly opposite Southsea Infant School, as well as impacting nearby residents and independent businesses.

Ward councillor Charlotte Gerada said she had been contacted by many residents, businesses and parents.

“This location being directly opposite one of Southsea’s largest primary schools is deeply worrying, given this store aims to sell alcohol, vapes and processed food.

“Albert Road also has its fair share of crime and anti-social behaviour issues, with drinking on the street, drug crime and violence being a concern. Our high street doesn’t need another alcohol source and another store that could drive further crime and public nuisance in the area.

She added Albert Road is a proud high street with “mainly independent businesses – let’s keep it that way” and urged residents to raise concerns with the licensing department.

Fellow ward councillor George Fielding described the application as “completely in the wrong location”, saying Albert Road is already “awash with convenient stores of this kind”.

A council spokesperson said it is “legally required to accept and process any valid licensing application”.

“Residents, businesses and responsible authorities can submit objections by 15 January 2026 on the four licensing objectives: preventing crime and disorder, public safety, preventing public nuisance, and protecting children from harm.

“If relevant objections are received, the Licensing Sub-Committee will review the application on its merits.

“Decisions about whether the area needs another shop fall under planning, which is handled separately.”

Councillor Suzy Horton said she understands concerns about alcohol consumption and anti-social behaviour, particularly due to nearby outdoor seating.

She added that councillors cannot decide what types of shops can or can’t open, saying there is “clearly a demand for them”.

Residents can email [email protected] to object, stating the address of the application and explaining how it would fail to meet the licensing objectives.

In April last year, residents and independent traders criticised plans to turn the former Garbo’s Hairdressers at 11–13 Albert Road into another convenience store, which was later approved. At the time, it was noted that there were already thirteen shops on the road selling alcohol.