The International Food Supermarket on East Road has failed to gain a licence to sell alcohol. Provided with evidence by the Police, councillors took the view that the location was just too susceptible to public nuisance from begging and congegation of street people, which are drawn to sources of alcohol.

“The Council’s “cumulative impact policy” is designed to enable the rejection of license applications in these situations,” says Cllr Tim Bick who also spoke at the hearing. “Proximity to Jimmy’s Nightshelter and St Matthew’s school, together with the history of behaviour and incidents, make this a sensitive spot. Many people have noted a small improvement since the previous shop selling alcohol there closed. It would be regrettable to go back.”