A new shop and off-licence is set to open in the Brynmill area of Swansea, just a few doors down from an existing off-licence. The building at the corner of Rhyddings Terrace and Bernard Street is currently being renovated and has been granted a premises licence.
Licence Details
The licence permits alcohol sales from 8am to 10pm, seven days a week. The business will be run by Jahangir Ahmad, whose family operates a nearby shop and off-licence on Bernard Street.
Objection Raised
A council licensing sub-committee heard that no statutory consultees, such as the police, made representations. However, an unnamed resident submitted an objection, expressing concern that the area is becoming increasingly family-oriented. The objector noted that an existing alcohol outlet is just 15 seconds away, with multiple shops in the Uplands area within a five-minute walk. The objection letter warned that another alcohol outlet could encourage loitering and alcohol-related disorder, impacting residents' quality of life.
Applicant's Response
Solicitor Justin Davies, representing Mr Ahmad, said his firm had written to the objector to address concerns. He argued that objecting based on need is not a relevant consideration and described the remaining concerns as an indeterminate future fear of increased crime and disorder. Davies highlighted that the applicant and his family have collectively been involved in the trade for 40 to 50 years without any known issues.
The new shop and off-licence will close at 10pm, consistent with other local businesses. Davies added that there is positive community sentiment about the additional service.
Decision
Councillors on the sub-committee reviewed the objection letter and granted the premises licence subject to conditions, including installing CCTV and challenging customers who appear under 25 for proof of age.
