Published: July 5, 2012
Concerns over Highbridge supermarket's late night alcohol bid

Town councillors have this week expressed concerns over proposals by a Highbridge supermarket to begin selling alcohol until midnight every day of the week.

Highbridge's Asda store in Springfield Road has submitted a request to Sedgemoor District Council to amend its premises license from July 27th.

The store's application requests "the sale by retail of alcohol for consumption off the premises from 6am-midnight Monday to Sunday."

The application was considered by Burnham and Highbridge Town Council's Planning Applications Committee on Wednesday evening (July 4th).

Highbridge councillor Bill Hancock said: "I would not be happy about alcohol being sold here until midnight. It could well encourage trouble in the middle of a residential area."

Cllr Helen Groves added: "It certainly would be a concern if alcohol was to be sold so late at night."

Councillor Peter Burridge-Clayton, who chaired the meeting, added: "The application states there is no change to opening hours at the moment, so this may be a precursor to longer hours in the future."

"While there are some concerns, there is little we can do from a planning perspective until the extended hours are to be introduced."

The store currently opens until 10pm on weekdays and 4pm on Sundays.