Britain could soon get its first 24-hour Greggs - on the doorstep of a world-famous cathedral. The popular bakery chain has applied for a round-the-clock licence to serve sausage rolls, steak bakes and other favourites at its outlet near Canterbury Cathedral in Kent.
The shop could remain open overnight if local council chiefs approve the plans. It's located less than 500 metres from Canterbury Cathedral - part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts tourists from across the globe.
However, with the neighbouring McDonald’s already open at all hours, some fear it could exacerbate drunken anti-social behaviour in the area. One councillor who represents that part of the city fears approving the licence could be the start of a “slippery slope”, with other outlets wanting to follow suit.
Labour’s Pip Hazelton said that without “serious reassurance”, she and fellow Westgate ward councillor Michael Dixey would be unable to support the plans. The licensing application submitted to Canterbury City Council reveals Greggs wants to provide a takeaway service between 11pm and 5am every day of the week.
“As it stands, we are not happy with or interested in the idea of it being a 24-hour service,” she said. Problems with drunken and disorderly behaviour in the city centre late at night have been well documented.
Concerns have also been raised about the noise caused by delivery drivers revving to and from food outlets in the early hours. Councillor Hazleton said: “We absolutely want to encourage business in the city – we want to see people thrive and make a go of it in the area.
“But barring McDonald’s, we’re not aware of any other operatives being given a 24-hour licence. It’s a slippery slope. People do live in the city centre and saying yes sets a dangerous precedent - when do we say no?
“St George’s Street has always somewhat suffered from anti-social behaviour. A lot of residents aren’t happy about existing businesses operating the way they do and ultimately the question is will the city benefit from this.”
As it stands, Greggs’ drive-thru in Sittingbourne has the latest closing time in the county at 10pm. Greggs also previously tried to bring in a 24-hour service at its Leicester Square store last year - but council bosses snubbed the bid.
Greggs was approached, but a spokesman said the company does not comment on live applications.
