AN application to set up a new off-licence has stirred up neighbours concerned with anti-social behaviour and parking.
Meftuni Erbil has applied to open a new store at 43 Highbridge Street, in Waltham Abbey, with a licence to sell alcohol from 8am to 11pm.
But his plan has received 13 objections from nearby residents concerned at the move.
Renee Maraldo, who lives in a flat above the currently vacant shop, said:“My quality of life will be greatly affected. Permission to sell alcohol along with the excessively large opening hours will not only produce excessive noise and disturbance, but we already have a problem with parking and rubbish which the shop will add to. Quite where the deliverers, staff, and customers think they will be able to park is beyond me.”
Raymond Hogan, of Leaview, Waltham Abbey, said: “It seems ludicrous to me that such an application may be considered. The opening of such premises so close to residential flats and houses is a recipe for disaster. Not only are there the parking, traffic and competition issues, there is also the very real risk of social disorder.”
Waltham Abbey district councillor Ricki Gadsby is supporting the residents' cause.
She said: "They're just really concerned about the alcohol licence. It's very residential by there and selling alcohol will only produce more noise and disturbance."
Mr Erbil has insisted his store will be a valuable amenity, and said there would be no problem with anti-social behaviour.
He told The Guardian: “It won't just be an off-licence- alcohol will only be a small part of the stock. There will be medicines, food, groceries, everything. It will be good for the older people and disabled people who can't get to Tesco.
“I heard that people objected that it will attract people and cause problems, but I don't think this shop will change anything. There's already an off-licence quite near and anyone who wants to buy alcohol can do so already.”
The application is due to be considered at Epping Forest District Council's licensing meeting, at the Civic offices, in Epping, next Thursday, December 3.
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