Agenda item

Following introductions the procedure for the hearing was outlined. The Chair confirmed that all parties had received a copy of the relevant paperwork.

The Applicant, Mr Dilpreet Singh Arora was represented by Mr Panchal of Personal Licence Courses Ltd.

Introduction by Mr Sims, Licensing Manager

The Licensing Manager outlined that an application had been received for Smarts Supermarket, 6 Upton Lea Parade, Slough for the:

Supply of alcohol for consumption OFF the premises only:-

Monday to Sunday 08:00am -23:00pm

The application was referred to the Sub-Committee for decision as a representation was received from an ‘Other Persons’.  The representation detailed concerns relating to;

·  The Prevention of Public Nuisance- Anti-social behaviour, congregations of groups consuming alcohol in the area, frequent urination in the street, accumulation of litter and that the addition of another off-licence in the area would contribute to the problems raised.

·  The Protection of Children from Harm- The representation raised concerns in relation to the intended off-licenses proximity to a nearby school.

The Sub-Committee was advised that there had not been any representations made from any of the Responsible Authorities including the Police and Neighbourhood Enforcement Team or from any other persons.

The Licensing Manager outlined the options available to the Sub-Committee.

Members were reminded that the application was for a new Premise Licence and that concerns regarding existing anti social behaviour could not be attributed to the premises.

Questions to the Licensing Manager

None.

Representations by the Applicant

The Applicant, Mr Dilpreet Singh Arora, was represented by Mr Panchal, who advised that the Applicant had three years experience in the running of licenced premises. Mr Panchal advised the Sub-Committee that the Applicant could not be held responsible for existing concerns in the area. It was noted that a number of measures would be implemented to promote the Licensing Objectives, including the display of CCTV posters, Challenge 25 Scheme, maintenance of a Refusals Register. All staff would be appropriately trained.

Questions to the Applicant

It was confirmed that all sales would be made through registered cash and carry’s and all transaction receipts would be kept.

In response to whether consideration would be given to no sales of single cans of alcohol, the Applicant confirmed he would consider implementing the Bottle Watch or Marker Scheme and would welcome this as an additional condition on the Premises Licence.

Representations by ‘Other Persons’

Mr Virk outlined his objections to the application and advised that he was previously employed at Virk’s Stores, which was situated in close proximity to the proposed premises; but that he was no longer in employment there. Mr Virk advised that individuals had raised concerns with him but that he was disappointed that none had attended the meeting to raise these matters. Concerns were raised regarding groups of people congregating in the street and that new premises would compound the existing problems in the area. Mr Virk stated that in his view, the premises would not benefit the local area, especially given its proximity to a number of local schools.

Summing Up

Mr Sims advised that business rivalry was not a consideration that the Sub Licensing-Committee could consider and that the application be considered on its own merits in relation to the Licensing objectives.

Mr Panchal confirmed his case as previously submitted, reinforcing that his Applicant would robustly promote the Licensing Objectives.

Following summing up, the parties left the meeting in order for the Sub-Committee to deliberate.

Decision

The Sub-Committee re-convened and all parties were asked to re-join the meeting.

Resolved –  That a Premises Licence be issued for the Sale by retail of alcohol for consumption OFF the Premises only, Monday to Sunday: 08:00- 23:00, subject to an additional condition requiring that the premises participate in ‘Bottle Watch’ or ‘Marker Scheme’ in relation to the sale of alcohol.

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