A proposal for a new convenience supermarket in Bedford to sell alcohol until 11pm was debated by councillors, despite no objections from police or other responsible authorities.
The application sought permission for an Asda Express at the former Fox and Hounds pub site on Goldington Road, to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises between 7am and 11pm, in line with the store’s planned opening hours.
The matter was considered by a Bedford Borough Council licensing sub-committee on Tuesday (6 January).
A report to the sub-committee confirmed that no responsible authority, including Bedfordshire Police, environmental health or trading standards, had objected to the application or requested conditions during the statutory consultation period.
Read: Fox and Hounds planning application approved at fifth attempt
However, Vikki Rigden, licensing team leader at the council, said there had been “relevant representations” submitted as part of the consultation.
She added that the sub-committee’s decision must be made in accordance with the Licensing Act 2003, the council’s statement of licensing policy and statutory guidance issued by the Secretary of State.
Strong track record
Presenting the application, Asda’s legal representative Richard Taylor said Asda operated more than 1,000 stores across England and Wales and had a strong track record in alcohol licensing.
He argued that the premises would operate with strict controls, including staff training, CCTV coverage, Challenge 25 age-verification policies and test purchasing.
“The issue before the committee is not whether the shop can open, that has already been determined through planning permission,” he said.
“The question is whether alcohol can be sold as part of the wider retail offer during the same hours the store is otherwise permitted to trade.”
Those opposing alcohol sales until 11pm argued that off-sales posed different risks from a former public house and could contribute to public nuisance, particularly in a residential area.
Concerns were raised about noise, loitering, litter and vehicle movements in the car park later in the evening.
Neighbouring ward cllr Lucy Bywater (Castle Newnham, Green) said a 10pm cut-off would strike a more reasonable balance between commercial operation and residents’ quality of life.
“I accept the law allows you to have an application to 11pm, but I would much prefer 10pm,” she said.
“I think it’s a reasonable hour… it aligns with the licensing requirement to promote business, but it also reduces the chance of affecting local amenity.”
Noise concerns
Cllr Bywater said this would also take into account other local stores that are open until 10pm.
Residents living close to the site told the hearing they were concerned about evening noise from customers and staff, particularly once the store closed, and about the impact on neighbouring homes and flats proposed above the premises.
In response, Asda said loitering would not be tolerated, staff would intervene where necessary, and the car park would be monitored by CCTV.
The company added that issues such as deliveries, lighting and noise from plant and machinery were already controlled through planning conditions.
In summing up, Mr Taylor reminded the sub-committee of the lack of objections from responsible authorities.
“They have not come to the table, they haven’t even suggested additional conditions,” he said.
“The responsible authorities must accept that Asda is a good operator and they can foresee no issues as experts with these premises opening and selling alcohol between 7am and 11pm,” he said.
The sub-committee retired to deliberate in private, and a written decision is expected to be published on the council’s website within five working days.
By John Guinn
Local Democracy Reporter
