Alcohol could soon be sold at a Post Office in a crime hotspot despite objections from the police.
An application by Modi Stores Limited for a premises licence was being considered by Wirral Council. The licence would allow the store, which would be located on Princes Pavement in Birkenhead, to sell alcohol until closing time at 6pm.
It was under scrutiny because of its location in an area of central Birkenhead where the ability to sell alcohol in shops and supermarkets is restricted. This is because of alcohol related crime and anti-social behaviour in the area.
READ MORE: 'School staff member' arrested on suspicion of child sex offences
The council recently renewed the policy to restrict alcohol in the area after Merseyside Police revealed the level of abuse directed at police officers, emergency workers, as well as McDonald's staff.
Merseyside Police objected to the licence being approved saying it “will undermine the prevention of crime and disorder.” Police told a Licensing panel more than 1,100 crimes had happened in the Birkenhead area within a year which was a 28% increase.
The police went on to add that 48 crimes had occurred on Princes Pavement itself and said these largely happened during business hours during the day.
Sarah Clover, a barrister representing Modi Stores, said the proposal was “exceptional” because of the post office that would be based in the shop. She said this would provide services for the local community and the elderly.
Ms Clover added the Post Office had actually approached Mr Modi to set up services in Princes Pavement. Mr Modi said the reason for the licence was to ensure the business was successful in the long term as people can get “the complete basket.” He added: “In order to sustain that Post Office you need something else to offer to the customers.
Mr Modi, and those representing him, stressed the store, and the Pyramids Shopping Centre where it is based didn’t want to make alcohol related problems worse. The store would be selling craft beers and alcohol at higher price points, types of alcohol they said wouldn’t be targeted by street drinkers.
They argued it could be a “shining light” and help change the drinking culture in the town. Mr Modi said staff would be trained to deal with street drinkers and refuse sales as well as be retrained every three months.
Gill Sherratt, a consultant from Licensing Matters, said they had “thrown the kitchen sink in” when it came to working with the police.
Ms Clover challenged the police on whether the evidence they brought forward would stand up in court if the licence was refused, adding: “Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that.”
She said: “People are trying to get on with their lives and minimise their travel and just to make things a little bit simpler”, adding the licence should be approved “all in the confidence that if anything does go wrong, the police can bring a review back.”
A decision will be made on the application in five working days.
See the latest crime stats and information where you live by adding your postcode or visit InYourArea
READ NEXT
'School staff member' arrested on suspicion of child sex offences
Immaculate home with 'wow factor' on the market
Killer ex-soldier battered with metal bar as he worked out in the gym
Nurse attacked by spiked teenager 'speechless' after charges dropped
30 words and phrases you'll only understand if you're from Liverpool
