The area was once dubbed London’s ‘gun capital’ but levels of violent crime have dropped, leading to fears about the fresh plans
A controversial plan to open an off-licence in a North London neighbourhood once blighted by “gang activity, drug dealing, and violent crime” has been given the green light – although with a number of conditions. The application received more than 60 objections from residents who fear it will encourage more street drinking and undermine progress to make the area safer.
Varandeep Singh Khurana applied for a licence to sell alcohol at Lilburne Walk Local on St Raphael’s Estate in Stonebridge from 9am to 11pm seven days a week. Stonebridge was once dubbed London’s ‘gun capital’ but more violent crime in the area has dropped over the past decade.
The plan was approved by Brent Council at a recent meeting of its Alcohol and Entertainment Licensing Sub-committee (December 1), despite concerns raised by local residents and community groups.
Objectors claimed that the easy availability of alcohol is a major reason for antisocial behaviour, including vandalism, violence and drug use, and feel that allowing the off-licence would encourage this type of activity in the area again.
Stonebridge ward Councillor, Abdifatah Aden, also submitted an objection. He suggested that allowing the off-licence “risks exacerbating existing public order challenges” and “intensify youth-related disturbances”. The owner was “shocked at the negativity” and wanted to work with the local community to prevent further problems.
Whilst the residents and community organisations failed in their attempts to stop the application being approved, they were successful in getting some conditions attached to the licence. Bespoke conditions were imposed on the licence holder, on top of the usual ban on miniatures and beers above 6 per cent.
The sale of alcohol was granted but only until 8pm – two hours earlier than the 11pm deadline applied for by Mr Khurana – and the beer fridge is to be located with the other alcoholic drinks, not near the front of the shop as proposed.
In a more unusual move, all alcohol sold from the premises must have shop identification on it and Mr Khurana will be responsible for any bottles or cans bought from there that are subsequently found littered around the estate. The shop will also be responsible for clearing rubbish within five metres of the shop front – whether that be on public or private land.
Prior to the decision, Mr Khurana’s agent told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) that he intends to “invest in the property to fully refurbish the premises”, which will “bring freshness to the local area”. If the imposed conditions are not adhered to, residents will be able to apply to the council to review the licence.
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