A forthcoming hearing will determine whether a new off-licence in Bilston can operate with extended hours amid concerns from local councillors about potential increases in crime and antisocial behaviour.
Kulwinder Singh has applied to the City of Wolverhampton Council for a licence to sell alcohol from 7am to 11pm at the Daily Stop and Off Licence, located in Mount Pleasant, Bilston. The shop is set to open in a former printing premises adjacent to the Robin 2 music venue.
Bilston North councillor Linda Leach has expressed apprehension about the lengthy operating hours. She highlighted fears that the availability of alcohol over such an extended period could exacerbate issues of public nuisance, including littering, noise, and street drinking in nearby public spaces.
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According to the council’s licensing report, there are already 40 licensed premises within the Bilston North ward, intensifying concerns about market saturation.
Cllr Leach, who also serves as the council’s cabinet member for adults, stated: “I have noticed an increasing number of licences seeking extended hours for alcohol sales and question the necessity of availability from as early as 7am until 11pm. There must be careful consideration of the impact on public spaces and residents. Early and prolonged access to alcohol heightens the risk of antisocial behaviour and nuisance to the community.”
Similarly, fellow Bilston North councillor and licensing committee member Leigh New described the proposal to permit 16-hour daily alcohol sales as “very concerning.”
The council’s licensing department and public health officials had previously objected to the application but withdrew their opposition after additional information was provided by Mr Singh. Conditions agreed upon include a ban on sales of high-strength alcohol.
Supporting the application, a statement explained: “The recently acquired premises will undergo significant refurbishment to modernise the shop. The applicant brings extensive experience in UK retail convenience stores and prioritises serving customers effectively. The requested hours are moderate and reflect usual trading times for general food and household goods alongside alcohol sales.”
The two Labour councillors from Bilston North have also voiced objections to a separate council proposal to extend Bilston Market’s alcohol licence to 11pm daily, citing similar concerns about prolonged alcohol availability contributing to antisocial behaviour and alcohol-related disorder in the market and town centre.
Notably, Bilston’s outdoor market reopened in July after an £9 million refurbishment, following an eight-month delay.
Decisions on both licensing applications are scheduled to be made by the City of Wolverhampton Council’s licensing committee in meetings set for 28 September and early October.