Police object to shop's alcohol licence request

Police have objected to a shop's application for a licence to sell alcohol, as it was previously found to be selling prescription drugs, counterfeit cigarettes and illegal vapes.

Mario's Mini Market, also known as Britannia Inn Shop, on Lindley Street in Rotherham, has applied to Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council for a licence to sell alcohol seven days a week.

South Yorkshire Police requested that the licence be refused, citing the applicant's previous involvement in unlicensed activity, and raised fears that granting the licence could lead to an increase in anti-social behaviour.

The applicant has outlined a number of measures to prevent anti-social behaviour and promote responsible alcohol sales.

A statement was also submitted from the council's community protection and environmental health manager, which details ongoing concerns regarding the premises.

The statement outlines a history of anti-social behaviour linked to the shop, including noise complaints, street drinking and gatherings of large groups.

It also highlights multiple enforcement actions, including a closure order issued in December 2024.

The authority has expressed its lack of confidence in the applicant's ability to comply with licensing regulations.

The closure order followed a raid in November 2024, which uncovered illicit prescription medications, including Tramadol, Diazepam and Amitriptyline, as well as counterfeit cigarettes and clothing, and illegal vapes.

The premises also posed serious health risks, with evidence of a cockroach infestation and violations of food safety regulations, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Inspectors discovered food products stored in unsanitary conditions, including in bathrooms and behind counters, while other items were found to be out of date and improperly labelled.

The shop was found to be storing fireworks illegally, and selling them without the proper licence required by the South Yorkshire fire service. The fireworks seized were deemed to be unsafe and unfit for sale under UK regulations.

On 18 December 2024, Sheffield Magistrates' Court granted a closure order, following the presentation of evidence detailing a series of incidents that included illegal sales and public nuisance caused by gatherings outside the shop.

The following day, officers attended the premises to enforce the closure. During this visit, a further 720 illicit cigarettes, worth approximately £520, were discovered concealed in the ceiling of the shop.

After the closure, the premises remained secured until 21 March, when the grills were removed and the premises was allowed to reopen.

To ensure compliance with licensing laws, the applicant plans to implement a comprehensive staff training programme covering the Challenge 25 scheme, alcohol refusal protocols and emergency procedures.

Additionally, a detailed incident log would be maintained, and a high-quality CCTV system would be installed to monitor public areas.

The applicant has committed to keeping the shop clean and maintaining contact with local residents to address any concerns.

The council's licensing sub-committee will consider the application during its next meeting on 7 May.

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