A HELENSBURGH convenience store has gained its provisional premises licence as it plans to come back into use.
The plans for the Premier store on Mains Avenue, submitted by Manuraaj Kumar, caused concern with one member of the public, who submitted an objection to councillors.
The objection cited concerns about the store being in a residential area, and parking issues, but councillors unanimously agreed that the provisional licence should be granted.
The application was heard at a meeting of the Argyll and Bute licensing board on Tuesday, June 23.
Licensing consultant Naga Rajesh, speaking on Mr Kumar’s behalf, said: ”Mr Kumar has experience in the licensing trade and has a very good track record in this field.
“The premises in question is a convenience store, which historically had a post office and has also had an alcohol licence in the past.
“It has been due for renovation, which is happening at the moment, and my client has invested a significant amount of money in this property.
“We have support from local residents who welcome this proposal and we also have parking facilities, with enough space on this part of the land.
“We respect the concern raised by a resident, but my client would like to say this is his livelihood. He is a family man who has spent his life savings going into it.
“It will not jeopardise the residents and he will ensure the premises and the way he operates will not cause a nuisance to neighbours.”
Councillor Kieron Green (Independent, Oban North and Lorn) asked: “Is there a reason that the beer cave is on the other side of the shop from the till? Are you confident there will be sufficient control over access to it?”
Mr Rajesh said: “The beer cave has an automatic closing door system which can be controlled from the counter area, so can be remotely managed.
“It is not accessible by anybody under 18 and we will have signs at the entrance that under-18s are not permitted inside.”
Councillor Graham Hardie (Liberal Democrat, Helensburgh Central) said: “I welcome this application despite the objection, because they have had a licence before and I am quite happy to accept it.”
Councillor Paul Kennedy (Liberal Democrat, Helensburgh and Lomond South) then said: “This is called a convenience store because it is convenient. Local residents would welcome it.
“You have talked about the under-18 policy; is there any way that it could be over-25s who would be able to buy alcohol?”
Mr Rajesh responded: “Sorry if I did not put it clearly – we are not banning under-18s in the shop. The beer cave has a sign that under-18s are not permitted inside.
“We will be following Challenge 25 and that is one of the measures we have to put in place. If anybody looks under 25 they have to go through an ID check process.
“The shop is fully open for all ages, but that area is 18 and over.”
Councillor Green said: “We can acknowledge that it is natural for residents to have concerns, but it is an established premises and it will serve the community and be a valuable asset.”
