Posted: Thu 26th Jul 2012

Councillors Call For Controls On Number of Alcohol Licenses Granted In Wrexham Town Centre

Wrexham.com for people living in or visiting the Wrexham area
This article is old - Published: Thursday, Jul 26th, 2012

A number of Wrexham councillors have expressed their concerns about the increase in the number of applications for liquor licenses for town centre locations and the impact that it’s having on traders in the town centre.

They are calling on the council to introduce a “Cumulative Impact policy” to control the number of licenses issued for a defined areas within the town centre. Such a policy can be introduced if there is proof that licensed premises are negatively contributing to crime and disorder, public safety, public nuisance or protection of children from harm.

If it was successfully introduced, it may create a rebuttable presumption against new applications if objections are received.

It comes after a number of traders in the town voiced their opposition to a proposed new licensed premises on Chester Street, only metres down the road from the Euro Delikatesy off license. The opening hours on the application are from 8am to 11pm.

Kim Sheridan of Just Tea and Coffee on the High Street gave her backing to the policy, she said: “I have had numerous complaints from my customers and passers by about anti social behaviour caused by the effects of alcohol. The council should have stronger powers when it comes to issuing licenses and I think a cumulative impact policy will greatly assist this.”

A motion has now been submitted for consideration at the council’s executive Board by two Wrexham Independent Group members David Taylor from Cefn and John Pritchard from Marchwiel.

Councillor Taylor said: “I used to work for the NHS and I am all too aware of the massive impact that excessive drinking has on emergency services and hospitals. A cumulative impact policy is a step in the right direction.”

Councillor Pritchard said: “I visit the town daily and all too often I see groups or individuals congregating in public places drinking alcohol. We need to control this better and improve the perception of the town.”

Smithfield Councillor Keith Gregory whose ward the town centre partly falls under said: “I would welcome a revised policy; the local authority needs more control on the number of licenses being issued. We need to positively promote Wrexham as a welcoming town. At present we have problems with drinking on the streets and some aggressive begging. The granting of more off licenses will not promote a positive image of the town.”

Wrexham Independent group leader, Councillor David A Bithell said: “I hope that the executive board and ultimately full council will review our licensing policy. The council needs tougher powers and such a policy will assist in reducing crime and disorder. If we have the powers, then we must use them.”

Do you think a cumulative impact policy would help solve the town centre’s anti-social behaviour issues? Join the debate on our forums.



Spotted something? Got a story? Email [email protected]



Have a look at...

Level crossing safety plea to North Wales holidaymakers this Easter

Three ‘never events’ reported at health board during February

Clwyd South MS welcomes plans for baby loss certificates for bereaved parents

More detail on club accounts as owners will ‘continue to offer minority equity positions to strategic partners’

Turnover up 75% as Wrexham AFC say ‘losses shouldnt be repeated’ as payroll nears £7m

Off-road motorcyclists ‘using their bikes dangerously’ warned they ‘will be seized’

Saturday’s Wrexham Artisan Market to be ‘showcase’ of local and national products

MMA Event coming to north east Wales this weekend!

Rare newts thriving after north east Wales pond restoration

Plans for new studio flat above Wrexham fast food restaurant

Football Banning Order issued to Wrexham man for ‘pyro offences’

Ambulance Service ‘expecting the Bank Holiday period to be a busy one for us’