Two neighbours have opposed Aldi’s bid for alcohol sales at its new outlet.
The budget supermarket wants to sell alcohol from 7am to 11pm daily from its new store in Old Shoreham Road, Hove, which is due to open on Thursday, December 4, at the former Homebase site.
The original application was for sales from 6am to midnight.
Opposition from people living in the area means the application will go before a panel of three Brighton and Hove councillors on Tuesday, November 25.
Neither the council licensing department or Sussex Police opposed the application, which now falls within policy guidelines for off-licences outside the city centre to close at 11pm.
Residents opposing the application raised concerns about the original later hours, as well as antisocial behaviour, littering and the location near schools.
One of the objectors, whose details were redacted on the council’s website, said: “No commercial premises have been open so late in this time and they don’t need to be.
“I am very worried about the impact which will significantly affect me and the surrounding area due to the increased noise, increased traffic (there will be far more lorry deliveries than used to serve Homebase), the very late finishing time and the very real risk of antisocial behaviour – vandalism, littering etc not to mention the likelihood of more under-age drinking.
“It is often bad enough after Hove Park Tavern has closed.”
The other objector, whose details were also removed, said: “The large car park is a venue for people to loiter and drink and it should not be allowed in a residential area.
“It happened when it was Homebase and so there is no reason why is should not happen for Aldi when there is alcohol on site.
“Increased litter in the area is another factor to include.
“The store is opposite one of the entrances to Hove Park School – and that needs to be considered.
“The protection of children is one of the considerations to be taken into account.”
Draft licensing conditions agreed with Sussex Police include a “Challenge 25” policy, where anyone who appears to be under the age of 25 is asked to provide official photographic identification, and installation of digital closed-circuit television (CCTV).
The virtual licensing panel hearing is due to start at 10am on Tuesday, November 25. The meeting is scheduled for webcast.
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