Cardiff residents fear new convenience store selling alcohol late may disrupt the community.
Residents worried about potential problems such as increased litter and parking difficulties. They also mentioned the possibility of night-time noise. One councillor described Birchgrove as a “delicate ecosystem,” noting that no shops there currently stay open past 10 PM.
Simon Grives voiced his opposition at a council meeting, stating that the area doesn’t need this new shop and highlighting its late operating hours of 11 PM or 12 AM. He emphasized that the area is unlike the bustling City Road.
Initially, the owner sought to open until 2 AM. However, after discussions with the police, he adjusted the hours. Ian Rushton, representing the shop owner, assured the council that the owner has the experience to manage the business effectively.
Rushton asserted that specific conditions would mitigate potential problems. In contrast, Pamela Davies pointed out that litter is already a pre-existing issue. Richard Davies expressed concerns about the operating hours of future shops. Councillor Hinchey questioned the business necessity of staying open so late.
Hinchey believed the late hours would contribute to increased noise levels, a sentiment echoed by another councillor. Councillor Ash-Edwards deemed the proposed hours excessive, while also acknowledging the benefits of a new business. Emma Gammon requested a 10 PM cutoff for alcohol sales, arguing that CCTV alone won’t deter bad behavior and emphasizing the need to protect the community.
Rushton mentioned the owner’s experience with other shops in Cardiff, stating that they routinely pick up litter at those locations. He also clarified that parking is not a licensing issue and that the demand for the shop is irrelevant to the licensing decision. He concluded by highlighting the owner’s responsibility and arguing that shops should not be held accountable for the misbehavior of individuals. He assured the council that staff would politely request people to move along, and ultimately, the council approved the license subject to police-imposed conditions.