Haringey Council approves 7 AM alcohol sales for a Seven Sisters shop despite police concerns over early morning crime.
The police objected, worrying about the early hours, as they thought it could cause problems. The council looked at the request at a meeting, which happened on February 3rd.
A police officer stated that early sales might increase crime, mentioning existing shops that already sell alcohol early. Police suggested starting alcohol sales later, proposing 9 AM instead of 7 AM.
The committee decided to give them the license anyway, although a nearby school caused worry, as people feared drinking near children who would pass by as they gathered. Other shops already sell alcohol there, but the council still granted the license.
The owner’s representative argued that they can’t be unfairly targeted, noting that the shop had no past issues. The owner, Mohammed Rahman, agreed to some things, including CCTV, training, and an incident log.
The committee found this argument convincing, pointing out that other shops nearby open early and sell alcohol. They felt singling out this shop was unfair. No one ever complained about the owner, and he also joined a scheme for responsible alcohol sales, which adds rules to address police concerns.
Therefore, the committee granted the license with conditions, balancing the owner’s needs, local concerns, and alcohol sales rules.