A new convenience store on Newland Street is set to sell alcohol after receiving its license.
The location on Newland Street worries some people. There’s been more bad behavior and theft lately. Residents fear the store will worsen things. One person saw staff stocking alcohol before the license got approved and wished to remain anonymous.
This resident thinks the license is a bad idea. They believe the town’s issues will escalate. Youths gathered outside even before the opening. People say youths hang out by the store already. The resident noticed alcohol before the license.
Police are aware but lack enough people. The store’s sign flashes, which some dislike. It feels wrong for our town. It seems inappropriate for the area. This person thinks we should fix existing issues first. We should handle problems before adding more causes for chaos.
Braintree District Council has officers for this area. Witham Town Council also has a Street Warden. They patrol together to help out. You can report issues to the Braintree council website. Criminal things should be reported to the police.
The council looked at the store’s alcohol request. It happened at a meeting on January 30, 2025. A decision was made after hearing concerns. The council granted the license with some rules. The hearing attendees will get a notice. They can appeal to the court if unhappy.