Concerned councillors and residents have this week raised formal objections over a Burnham petrol station’s plans to sell alcohol 24 hours a day.
As first reported here, the Esso station at the junction of Oxford Street and Love Lane has applied to Sedgemoor District Council for a change to its premises licence to allow round-the-clock alcohol sales.
At a meeting on Monday, councillors aired their concerns about the plans. Cllr Phil Harvey said: “I can’t see why it’s necessary to sell alcohol through the night here. It could lead to late night noise and anti-social behaviour issues.”
Cllr Neville Jones added: “There’s a guesthouse right next door to this petrol station and many private properties around the roundabout. It’s in the heart of the town. Selling alcohol here around the clock could well harm the area.”
And Cllr Dennis Davey agreed, adding that he also has concerns about the proposed sale of hot food overnight. “There’s a risk that this petrol station would become a collection point for youths late at night which would create extra noise in a residential area.”
Local resident Mike Young also spoke out about his concerns. He told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “We’re concerned the 24-hour sales of alcohol would lead to extra late night noise and anti-social behaviour – we are certainly opposed to the plans.”
Esso wants all restrictions and conditions on its licence removed at the station to allow it to sell alcohol 24 hours a day. Its current hours for selling alcohol are Monday to Saturday (8am-11pm), Sunday 10am-10.30pm, Good Friday 8am-10.30pm and Christmas Day 12pm-3pm and 7pm-10.30pm.
Despite the Town Council’s vote, the final decision rests with Sedgemoor District Council. A spokesperson said any concerns and letters of support regarding the application should reach the council before 16th July, 2014. The full application can be viewed at Sedgemoor District Council’s offices at Bridgwater House, King Square, Bridgwater TA6 3AR between 9am and 5pm Monday to Thursday and between 9am and 4.30pm on Friday (excluding Bank Holidays).
