New Convenience Store Approved Despite Local Concerns
A new Wolverhampton convenience store has been granted permission to sell alcohol, despite neighbours arguing the plans were 'unnecessary and incompatible' with their residential area. City of Wolverhampton Council's licensing committee approved the alcohol licence for Mesha Essentials Convenience Store on Rooker Avenue during a hearing on Wednesday, November 19.
Objections and Agreements
The hearing proceeded after local residents submitted an objection, claiming the new shop would be 'incompatible with the area' and could lead to increased anti-social behaviour. Their concerns specifically mentioned potential littering, vandalism, petty crime, noise, and public drinking.
Initially, West Midlands Police had also objected to the application, stating the proposed owner, Mrs Chrishanthan, had not provided sufficient information to show how she would prevent crime and disorder or protect children from harm. The force described the requested opening hours as 'considerably lengthy'.
However, following discussions between Mrs Chrishanthan, the police, and the council's public health and environmental health departments, an agreement was reached. This agreement included conditions that satisfied the authorities, leading them to withdraw their objections. Despite this, the hearing was still required due to the remaining objections from the public.
Council's Decision and Owner's Assurance
At the hearing, the licensing committee expressed disappointment that the local objectors did not attend to present their case in person. Councillors concluded that many of the residents' worries were 'speculative and without real evidence'.
Mrs Chrishanthan addressed the committee, assuring them of her experience and commitment to responsible trading. 'We can make sure that we follow the Challenge 25 policy to make sure that the alcohol is sold to the right people,' she stated. She highlighted her experience working in a petrol station opposite a pub and managing another shop in Dudley, giving her familiarity with handling alcohol-related issues and public nuisance.
She also explained that the longer opening hours—from 6am to 11pm Monday to Saturday and until 9pm on Sundays—would cater to people working irregular shifts who needed to buy essential items outside of standard shopping times.
With the licence now formally granted, Mesha Essentials Convenience Store is cleared to open and operate as planned on Rooker Avenue.
