Former pub to become off licence despite objections

A former pub in Sheffield will be turned into an off-licence and grocery shop despite residents' opposition.

An application from E & A Premier to convert the old Byard’s Leap pub on Daresbury Drive, Arbourthorne, has been granted, Sheffield City Council said.

The shop will be able to sell alcohol from Monday to Saturday until 22:30 and on Sundays until 21:30.

A petition of 105 signatures opposing the change cited concerns about the possible increase in crime and anti-social behaviour, though E & A Premier's owner Mohammad Emmad said he believed it had been set up by a competitor.

The petition against the new shop said the neighbouring community of Manor Top “already faces significant challenges, particularly in terms of crime rates, anti-social behaviour and alcohol-related incidents".

Mr Emmad told a council meeting he believed the petition had been based on false claims and said its organisers had told residents the premises would be extended, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

His application confirmed measures would be in place to prevent alcohol sales to underage or drunk customers and says a log of crimes and complaints will be kept.

Mr Emmad said he had been in the industry for six years and had never had any issues, adding CCTV would be used in the store and would be available to the council and the police if necessary.

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